AI literacy in media education: A comparative study of mass communication students in the UAE and Pakistan

Sajjad Ali 1, Dalia Hassan 2, Asmaa Hegazy 3, Nadeen Selim 2, Saada Khadragy 4 *
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1 Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Malakand, Chakdara Dir Lower, PAKISTAN
2 College of Mass Communication, Umm Al Quwain University, Umm Al Quwain, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
3 College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Khorfakkan, Sharjah, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
4 College of Arts and Sciences, Umm Al Quwain University, Umm Al Quwain, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
* Corresponding Author
Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, Volume 16, Issue 1, Article No: e202601. https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/17661
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ABSTRACT

This study analyzed artificial intelligence (AI) literacy among mass communication students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Pakistan, to identified usage of AI applications in the media and communication fields, with highlighting regional differences and institutional challenges. And the research measured AI literacy levels and investigated how AI intersects with digital, information, and media literacy. The study discussed the applications of AI in different sectors, AI in education: challenges and ethical considerations, the need for AI literacy, bridging gaps and promoting inclusivity with AI literacy, and AI literacy in Asian and Arab countries. This is done by using the AI literacy scale. The study considered a quantitative research study based on a cross-sectional survey method that evaluates AI literacy levels among 536 students studying mass communication in UAE and Pakistan and examined some hypotheses. Findings highlighted regional differences, with UAE students demonstrating higher AI adoption due to better digital infrastructure and educational policies, while Pakistani students face barriers such as limited access to AI tools, inadequate training, and slower internet connectivity. Also, results indicated that both groups recognized AI’s potential benefits, they differ in usage intensity, skill perception, and satisfaction. The study emphasized the need for AI literacy integration in media curricula, faculty training, and policy development to bridge these gaps. This research served as a basis for future studies exploring the impact of AI on the quality of media education, such as analyzing content produced by students using these tools.
Keywords: AI literacy scale, mass communication students, Asian and Arab countries, AI applications, quantitative research, media skills of students

CITATION

Ali, S., Hassan, D., Hegazy, A., Selim, N., & Khadragy, S. (2026). AI literacy in media education: A comparative study of mass communication students in the UAE and Pakistan. Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, 16(1), e202601. https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/17661

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