Exploring The Influence Of Ai Learning Tool Use On Academic Performance: A Mediation Analysis Of The Role Of Learning Engagement

Jovert J. Delegencia, Anthony G. Esguerra
dx.doi.org/10.17576/apjitm-2026-1501-01

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to determine the effect of AI Learning Tool Use (AILTU) on Academic Performance (AP) with Learning Engagement (LE) as a mediating variable among students in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in Region 10. The data were collected from 156 student respondents using a standardized survey questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The study used Partial Least Squares ? Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) through WarpPLS 8.0 (Kock, 2020) to assess both direct and mediated effects among the variables (Hair et al., 2021). The research shows that AI Learning Tool Use has a positive and significant effect on both Learning Engagement and Academic Performance. Furthermore, Learning Engagement has a significant mediating effect on the relationship between AILTU and AP. The study revealed some gaps such as unequal access to AI tools, lack of structured digital literacy training, and inconsistent integration of AI platforms in education. Furthermore, the findings highlight the need to encourage active learning strategies and digital tool adoption to enhance student performance and engagement, especially in the context of disruptions caused by rapid technological changes or challenges to traditional educational delivery. The study contributes to the expanding research on digital learning transformation by emphasizing the strategic importance of AI Learning Tool Use (AILTU) in improving academic engagement and performance. The study offers important findings that educational institutions can use to enhance their AI tool integration and build resilience in digital learning environments.

keyword

AI Learning Tool Use, Learning Engagement, Academic Performance, Digital Learning Transformation, Higher Education Resilience

Area