Artificial Intelligence- Driven Digital Transformation in Media Education at Higher Education Level in India: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Digital transformation in higher education is being driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and transforming the skills needed in media and journalism education. This study explores the digital and pedagogical conditions that could impact the future AI-enabled transformation in the selected Indian higher education institutions. A descriptive cross sectional mixed method design was used, with a quantitative survey of 100 faculty members using purposive non-probability sampling and qualitative focus group discussions with faculty and students. Descriptive statistics were employed to measure faculty readiness, technology knowledge, implementation challenges, assessment challenges, alternative assessments using digital tools, and institutional support needs. The results indicated that 77% of faculty members had moderate to high readiness to teach online and 90% had moderate or higher level of familiarity with digital technologies. Practical media subjects, especially camera skills, filmmaking and photography, were still challenging to teach online. The main assessment challenges were restricted direct observation, lack of non-verbal cues and the challenge of assessing practical skills remotely. Digital inequality, limited access to hardware and software, and less peer interaction were also found to be ongoing limitations. The study concludes that Indian media education has a meaningful digital foundation for future AI integration, yet, for that to happen, there is a need for improving AI literacy, infrastructure, equitable access, assessment redesign, and institutional governance.