Competencies Needed for Artificial Intelligence Literacy in Students

Abstract

The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in higher education raises the need to develop competencies that enable students to use them in a functional, critical, and responsible manner. This study aimed to analyze the competencies associated with artificial intelligence literacy among university students. To this end, a quantitative study with a non-experimental, cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational design was conducted with a sample of 300 students. The results showed a medium overall level of AI literacy (M = 3.22), with greater development in the practical use of tools (M = 3.72) and lower scores in critical thinking and evaluation of results (M = 2.91). The findings reveal a gap between instrumental competencies and critical and ethical competencies, highlighting the need to strengthen formative processes aimed at understanding AI limitations, evaluating its outputs, and using it responsibly in academic contexts.