AI-Based Quality Management Mechanisms in Higher Education: Digital Transformation, Challenges, and Development Prospects

Abstract

The modern higher education system is in the process of active digital transformation, where the development of quality management and quality assurance mechanisms based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gaining particular importance. In the context of technological progress and rapid changes in the educational environment, universities are increasingly moving to data-based and innovative management models, which contribute to the effectiveness of teaching, assessment, monitoring and institutional development. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this process and sharply demonstrated the importance of digital platforms, Learning Analytics and automated quality mechanisms in higher education.

The aim of the paper is to analyze the impact of digital transformation, modern quality assurance approaches, key challenges and development prospects in higher education. The study is based on the Desk Research method and combines the analysis of international scientific literature, ESG standards, ENQA, UNESCO, OECD and Council of Europe documents. Special attention is paid to internal quality assurance mechanisms, data-driven governance, integration of the PDCA cycle and the use of digital technologies.

The results of the study showed that AI-based quality management systems significantly increase the organizational effectiveness of universities, the accuracy of decision-making and the ability to continuously improve quality. Artificial intelligence is used to analyze student progress, develop personalized learning, automate assessment and identify academic risks. In addition, challenges such as data confidentiality, algorithmic bias, academic integrity and the need for effective AI Governance frameworks were identified.

The paper concludes that quality assurance in higher education institutions should be viewed as a multidimensional, integrated and continuous development process that combines systemic approaches, practical mechanisms, innovative technologies and people-centered management. Quality management systems based on artificial intelligence are not only a technological innovation, but also an important mechanism for the strategic development of universities, their competitiveness and effective integration into the international educational space.