Digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the evaluation of Portuguese language courses

Abstract

TThis paper addresses the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in the analysis of evaluative data for a Portuguese Language course at Higher Education Institutions in Brazil. It is supported by a theoretical framework that discusses the evolution of evaluative practices, from traditional methods to more contemporary approaches that utilize technological resources, highlighting the transition towards more formative and personalized assessments. Methodologically, the research adopts a mixed-methods approach, analyzing data from evaluations and mock exams conducted between 2019 and 2023, covering the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic period. Platforms such as Databricks and Microsoft Power BI are utilized to process and analyze data on student engagement and performance. The preliminary results suggest the effectiveness of mock exams in assessing learning and a positive trend in the average performance of students in the Portuguese Language course during the examined period, although they reveal the need for renewed pedagogical strategies to encourage student participation and adapt evaluative practices to new educational realities.