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Artificial Intelligence Training Systems and Workforce Performance of Tertiary Institutions in Cross River State: The Mediating Role of Digital Competence

Ita, Caroline Ntui, Lebo, Assumpta Lebo, Edodi, Hope Ukam, Ph.D

Abstract

This study examined the effect of artificial intelligence (AI) training systems on workforce performance in public tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria, with digital competence as a mediating variable. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of AI- powered personalized learning, intelligent tutoring systems, AI learning analytics, and virtual AI training platforms on workforce performance, while assessing the mediating role of digital competence. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted. The study population comprised 10,400 academic and non-academic staff drawn from six public tertiary institutions in Cross River State, from which a sample of 438 respondents was selected using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings revealed that AI training systems significantly enhanced workforce performance and positively influenced employees' digital competence. The study also established that digital competence significantly improved workforce performance and partially mediated the relationship between AI training systems and workforce performance. The results indicate that AI-enabled staff development enhances employees' digital capabilities, adaptability, innovation, and overall job performance. The study concludes that the effectiveness of AI training systems in improving workforce performance depends largely on employees' digital competence. It therefore recommends that public tertiary institutions institutionalize AI-driven staff development programmes and strengthen continuous digital capacity-building initiatives to improve workforce performance and support sustainable digital transformation. (226 words)

Keywords

Artificial intelligence training systemsAI-powered personalized learningdigital competenceworkforce performancepublic tertiary institutions jpaswr

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