How artificial intelligence fosters student creativity in higher education: Evidence from a moderated mediation model

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into higher education has created new opportunities for enhancing student learning and creativity. However, research on the mechanisms by which AI-related competencies influence creative learning outcomes remains limited. This study investigates how AI literacy and AI use for learning affect student creativity, with cognitive engagement as a mediating factor and learning motivation as a moderating factor. Data were collected from 420 university students in London between January and May 2025 and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, hierarchical regression, and PROCESS-based mediation and moderated mediation models. The findings indicate that both AI literacy and AI use for learning positively influence student creativity. Cognitive engagement partially mediates these relationships, while learning motivation strengthens the link between AI competencies and engagement. The results highlight the importance of combining AI literacy development, engagement-focused pedagogy, and motivational learning environments to foster creativity in AI-supported education.