Digital Literacy for Adopting Artificial Intelligence in University’s Leadership Roles

Abstract

The rapid application of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has increased the relevance of digital skills and basic AI skills for university leaders. However, there is limited actual information regarding the correspondence between existing leadership competencies and AI change competencies. This quantitative study examined the extent to which university leaders in Henan Province, China currently possess digital and AI skills and the extent to which they want to be proficient. Eight skill areas were included in a questionnaire distributed to 400 leaders in public and private universities. Priorities and skill gaps were identified using simple statistics and the Priority Needs Index (PNI Modified). The findings indicate that leaders perceive their digital and AI skills to be at a medium to high degree, but gaps exist between the current and desired levels in all aspects. The use of AI in research and university management, as well as online communication and collaboration, are the most significant areas needing improvement. The study provides evidence to inform the development of leadership skills and institutional regulations that would enhance the inclusion of AI in higher education in a sustainable and ethical manner.