Vol. 3 No. 1 (2028): AI, Workforce Learning, and Educational Transformation
Articles

Human Agency and Transformative Learning in AI-Mediated Education: A Qualitative Study of University Educators in China

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  • Viktor Wang
Viktor Wang
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46787/ijaipil.v3i1.7529

Published 2026-06-02

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Keywords

  • Artificial intelligence; transformative learning; human agency; AI-mediated education; critical AI literacy; higher education; China.

How to Cite

Wang, V. (2026). Human Agency and Transformative Learning in AI-Mediated Education: A Qualitative Study of University Educators in China. International Journal of AI in Pedagogy, Innovation, and Learning Futures, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.46787/ijaipil.v3i1.7529

Copyright (c) 2026 Viktor Wang

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming higher education and workforce learning by reshaping how individuals access information, communicate, and develop professional knowledge. This qualitative study examines how university educators in China perceive human agency and transformative learning within AI-mediated educational environments. Drawing on transformative learning theory and critical perspectives on communication and recognition, the study analyzes responses from 15 university educators located in Beijing, Shenzhen, Dalian, and Shenyang. Thematic analysis revealed six major themes: (1) AI as a catalyst for reflection and professional growth, (2) tensions between efficiency and independent thinking, (3) the enduring importance of human interaction and recognition, (4) critical AI literacy as an emerging educational imperative, (5) human-centered approaches to future AI integration, and (6) human agency as the central mediating factor in AI-mediated learning. Findings suggest that AI can support transformative learning by encouraging reflection, creativity, and inquiry, but may constrain learning when overreliance diminishes critical thinking, autonomy, and independent judgment. Across all themes, human agency emerged as the defining factor shaping whether AI enhances or undermines meaningful learning. The study highlights the importance of preserving human-centered educational practices, critical reflection, and ethical engagement in an increasingly AI-mediated world.

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