Enhancing Data-Driven Decision-Making in Educational Administration in Riyadh through Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The education sector is witnessing rapid development in the use of artificial intelligence technologies to improve management quality and decision-making efficiency. However, the reality of educational administration in Riyadh still suffers from a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This research aims to study the impact of artificial intelligence on decision-making efficiency in educational institutions in Riyadh. This research aims to analyze the level of awareness and knowledge among educational leaders, identify the most prominent technical, administrative, and cultural challenges, explore the extent of institutional and legislative readiness, and propose an applied model that supports the effective integration of this technology. The researcher used a descriptive survey approach. A questionnaire was designed consisting of 32 statements distributed across six main axes, including: the level of educational leaders' awareness of the potential of artificial intelligence, technical and administrative challenges, the impact of artificial intelligence on decision-making efficiency, and ways to overcome technical problems. In addition, two axes are related to the regulatory environment, supportive policies, and the extent of institutional readiness to adopt this technology. A questionnaire was distributed to a purposive sample of 157 educational leaders from various public and private schools and educational institutions in Riyadh. However, challenges such as weak infrastructure, lack of training, and the absence of legislative policies were among the most significant obstacles. Regression analysis also demonstrated that knowledge and institutional challenges significantly impact the effectiveness of AI in school administration. Factor analysis revealed a technical-institutional axis constituting the most significant obstacle to smart transformation. Accordingly, the study recommends developing specialized qualification programs, enhancing the digital environment, and formulating supportive policies to leverage AI, contributing to administrative efficiency in line with the digital transformation goals of Saudi Vision 2030.