Published on September 2025 | Artificial Intelligence, Higher Education, Learning, Teaching Strategies, Literacy

Navigating AI-self-efficacy: Mediating student attitudes and AI literacy

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a new frontier that is gradually affecting our daily lives. With the advent of the newest and most sophisticated technology, AI represents a new frontier that is increasingly influencing our daily lives. With the recent advancements in 21st-century technology, the potential for its application is limitless, particularly among students. However, the relationship between student attitudes towards AI (SATAI) and AI literacy (AIL) remains unclear. Additionally, there is a lack of literature regarding the mediating role of AI self-efficacy (AISE) in the connection between SATAI and AIL. To address this gap, this study explored these relationships and aimed to provide foundational knowledge regarding these variables. A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 1,301 voluntary participants selected through purposive sampling. The data collected during the second semester of the 2024-2025 academic year underwent descriptive and inferential analysis using statistical tools, including mean, standard deviation, and regression analysis with Hayes' Process Macro model 4. The study found that students exhibited moderate agreement in their attitudes towards AI. Furthermore, students demonstrated a moderate level of AIL and moderate AISE. Notably, the study established a connection between SATAI and AIL. It also confirmed that AISE plays a mediating role in the relationship between SATAI and AIL. Based on these findings, the study offers some relevant recommendations for the use and regulation of AI among students.