An Empirical Study on the Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence Education Among Students in Private Universities of Shaanxi Province: The Mediating Role of Computer Self-Efficacy

How private universities can effectively seize the opportunities of AI technology and respond to the challenges of digital transformation has become a core issue concerning their sustainable development and quality improvement. As the primary service recipients and direct participants of AI education, students’ willingness to adopt AI-based educational technologies is particularly crucial. This study expands the UTAUT model by introducing computer self-efficacy as a mediating variable to explore the factors influencing the acceptance of artificial intelligence education among students in private universities in Shaanxi Province. The findings reflect the characteristics of these students, indicating that performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions not only directly affect behavioral intention but also exert indirect effects through computer self-efficacy, provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for promoting AI education in private universities.