Digital Transformation of Higher Education: Integration of AI-Based Learning Platforms and Digital Entrepreneurship Development in Generation Z

Abstract

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital ecosystem has fundamentallychanged the landscape of higher education. However, the integration of AI-based adaptivelearning platforms with the development of digital entrepreneurship competencies in GenerationZ students is still fragmentary and less empirically measurable. This study aims to analyze theimpact of the use of AI-based learning systems on improving digital literacy, technological selfefficacy, and student entrepreneurial intentions, as well as formulate a sustainableimplementation management model. The method used is mixed-methods sequential explanatorydesign. Quantitative data was collected through a survey of 324 undergraduate students at fiveuniversities in Java, analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Qualitative data was obtained from in-depth interviews with 16 lecturers, campus ITmanagers, and alumni entrepreneurs, then analyzed thematically. The results showed that theadoption of AI platforms had a significant impact on digital literacy (β=0.71, p<0.001) andentrepreneurial intention (β=0.58, p<0.001), with digital self-efficacy acting as a partialmediator. Qualitative findings reveal that successful integration depends on transformationalleadership, a project-based curriculum, and an agilely managed IT infrastructure. This researchprovides a strategic framework for higher education management in aligning IT innovation withthe development of digital entrepreneurial capabilities.