Why do employees learn artificial intelligence? The influence of motivation and dynamic capabilities

This study explores factors influencing employees’ willingness to learn artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and individual-level dynamic capabilities (sensing, seizing, and reconfiguring). Drawing on self-determination theory and dynamic capabilities theory, survey data from 350 employees were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Results show that both types of motivation significantly drive AI learning willingness, while dynamic capabilities enhance these motivations. The moderating role of job type (technical vs. non-technical) was not significant, indicating the significance of motivations and capabilities across all roles. The study contributes by integrating motivation and dynamic capabilities in the AI adoption context and by offering practical insights for organizations to foster an AI-ready workforce through balanced motivational strategies and capability building.