Can artificial intelligence replace human teachers? Preservice teachers’ perspectives on AI in education through the TPACK framework

Purpose This study investigates how preservice teachers perceive the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a non-human instructor in both higher education (HE) and mainstream school contexts. It also examines their views on the potential for AI to replace human teachers in the professional workforce and the broader impact of AI on teaching and learning delivery. Design/methodology/approach A participatory research design was employed with preservice teachers enrolled in a postgraduate education degree programme at a university in China. Data collected from 76 participants via a virtual learning environment (VLE) classroom online forum were analysed through thematic analysis. 48 comments and discussion threads were identified to capture prevailing attitudes, with the TPACK framework serving as a heuristic analytical lens. Findings Preservice teachers expressed interest in the pedagogical possibilities of AI, particularly its capacity to support and enhance instructional practices. Howeve