Exploring Faculty Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Higher Education: An Analysis Using the UTAUT Framework

In India, the higher education system is in transition; understanding faculty perspectives on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning is essential. This is especially crucial in India, where a diverse higher education system exists. However, in India, few works focus on AI adoption and its impacts. Addressing this gap empirically is crucial to successful AI adoption in Indian higher education. This paper examined faculty perceptions of AI use in India, including perceived ease of use, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and threat perception. A quantitative method was employed, based on data collected from 380 faculty members using a self-developed questionnaire, and a convenience sampling technique was used. The findings indicated that perceived benefits, institutional support, peer influence, and perceived risks positively affected behavioural intentions and the actual use of AI. Ease of use and actual AI adoption were significantly determined by institutional support, whereas ease of use was not a significant factor in behavioural intention. These findings highlight the importance of robust institutional leadership, support, and training in AI. This study provides practical insights for improving AI integration in Indian higher education and drives digital transformation through informed strategies and sound practices.