Abstract:

Motivation:
The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Higher Education (HE) has a long-lasting effect on teaching methodologies and preparation, implementation, and evaluation of learning and teaching, necessitating the re-evaluation of educator competencies. This study focuses on the transformative potential of AI in shaping digital competencies, guided by the European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu), including creating and modifying digital resources, problem-solving, and innovative assessment strategies. Our research first explores the question: Which AI Tools are used by HE teachers to support various teaching activities? and further analyses the question "Which competencies of the DigCompEdu framework are influenced by AI?".

Methodology:
Our approach involves a detailed survey of educators at HE institutions in Germany. This survey assesses if and where AI tools are being used and how the use of AI tools impacts each of the 22 DigCompEdu competencies. We show the educators' assessment of how AI may influence various competencies with a quantitative analysis using Jasp. For the next step, we will compile a focus group discussion with experts in AI and HE didactics to explore how AI improves or challenges teaching practices to create implications and recommendations.

Results:
We anticipate responses from around 50 higher education teachers to our questionnaire. We will synthesize the collected data into a series of 'Fact Cards', each focusing on the potential influence of AI on each of the 22 specific DigCompEdu competencies. These cards will show the competencies most significantly impacted by AI. Designed for clarity and conciseness, the cards aim to provide educators with a rapid yet comprehensive understanding of each competence, emphasizing both the positive and challenging aspects of AI integration. Additionally, we anticipate including customized recommendations for AI tools specifically suited to enhance certain competencies. This innovative approach to data presentation is intended to make our findings easily accessible and applicable for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers. Our goal is to transform these anticipated results into actionable strategies that can be effectively implemented in the field of educational technology.

Impact and Outlook:
Analyzing educator responses lets us pinpoint which competencies are most significantly impacted by AI – positively and negatively. This detailed understanding is crucial for shaping future educational strategies and technology integration and building awareness of AI benefits and limits. The study aims to chart a course for the effective and ethical use of AI in HE, offering strategic recommendations for educators to increase their digital skills for their teaching and career. We envision creating a more dynamic, responsive, and effective educational environment by aligning AI tools with educational competencies. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of AI's multifaceted role in educational technology and sets the stage for future research in the field.

Keywords:

AI, Higher Education, DigCompEdu, Digital Competence Development, Teacher Training.