Investigating The Penetration of Deep Fake Technology in STEM Classrooms: A Systematic Review Of Potential Benefits on Learning Outcomes

This systematic review investigates the integration of deepfake technologies AI-generated synthetic media powered by generative adversarial networks (GANs) in African STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classrooms from 2021 to October 8, 2025, focusing on their potential to enhance learning outcomes. Guided by PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review  synthesizes 20 studies (15 peer-reviewed articles, 8 conference proceedings,  5 gray literature reports) from databases including Google Scholar, African Journals Online, Scopus, Web of    Science, and UNESCO/IDRC repositories. The study addresses four research questions: (1) the utility of deepfakes in teaching STEM concepts, (2) effective integration strategies, (3) impacts on spatial reasoning and visual literacy, and (4) long-term retention effects. Findings indicate low penetration (<15%) but significant benefits, including a 24–28% improvement in conceptual understanding (e.g., Nigerian engineering simulations, d=0.65), enhanced engagement through culturally relevant avatars (35% increase in Rwanda), and moderate skill gains (g=0.51) in spatial reasoning and visual literacy. Retention benefits (18–25% at 6–12 months) are tempered by risks like “deepfake fatigue” (9% drop in Uganda). Effective integration strategies include hybrid models (e.g., Deepfake Integration Cycle, 56% fidelity  in South Africa) and offline tools for rural access. Grounded in an expanded AI-TPACK framework and Constructivist Learning Theory, the review highlights deepfakes’ potential to address resource scarcity and equity gaps, despite challenges like digital divides and ethical concerns (31% educator worry over superficial learning). Limitations include geographical bias (South Africa/Nigeria focus), small sample sizes (average n=150), and limited longitudinal data. Recommendations for educators, policymakers, researchers, and parents emphasize ethical training, scalable pilots, and culturally responsive content to foster inclusive STEM education in Africa.