Validation of a digital competence in artificial intelligence scale for non-university students based on the DigComp model

Abstract

In the current educational landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming teaching and learning processes, underscoring the necessity for students to develop specific digital competences related to AI in order to address the challenges and opportunities of this technological era. This study examines the increasing relevance of AI in education, with a particular focus on the digital competence of non-university students for its responsible and effective application, aligned with the European DigComp 2.2 framework. The primary aim was to validate the Digital Competence in Artificial Intelligence Questionnaire for Students (CompDigIA). To this end, an instrument was developed based on the five competence areas of DigComp, adapted to the context of AI, and administered to a representative sample of 480 students. The methodological approach involved both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses using structural equation modeling, yielding satisfactory fit indices and robust internal consistency. The findings confirm the validity and reliability of the questionnaire for assessing digital competence in AI, while also identifying strengths and areas for improvement among students. The discussion highlights the study's contribution to addressing a gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive and specialized assessment tool for the non-university educational stage, and situates the results within the context of prior research on digital competence and AI. The study concludes that the instrument offers a solid foundation for future research and educational practice aimed at fostering AI-related digital competences, with recommendations for expanding its application and addressing ethical and pedagogical considerations associated with educational digitalization.