Integration of Artificial Intelligence into Virtual Teaching-Learning Environments: Challenges and Future Research Directions
Keywords:
Artificial intelligence; virtual learning environments; higher education; pedagogical opportunities.Abstract
Objective. To analyze the opportunities, challenges, and future lines of research in the integration of artificial intelligence in virtual university learning environments. Design/Methodology/Approach. An integrative review of the literature with a qualitative approach and bibliometric component was developed from 48 indexed scientific publications from the period 2020-2026. The results were organized by categories and a comparative analysis of the different research was developed. Results/Discussion. The analysis of the opportunities establishes that artificial intelligence expands the possibilities of transformation of virtual learning environments by favoring educational experiences focused on the needs of the student. On the other hand, the challenges analyzed show that integration is conditioned by technological, pedagogical, ethical, and institutional factors that, when interrelated, reduce the educational impact that requires the approach of strategies. As future lines, the effects of artificial intelligence in higher education should be deepened to allow the framework of pedagogical models that guide its integration centered on the student as a creator of knowledge. Conclusions. The incorporation of artificial intelligence in virtual environments requires adaptive and student-centered strategies, which go beyond the use of technologies supported by pedagogical conditions to achieve equitable, responsible and sustainable integration. Contribution/Originality/Value. The study systematizes the opportunities, challenges and gaps in knowledge about the integration of artificial intelligence into virtual learning environments and proposes a three-dimensional conceptual model that contributes to the improvement of institutional decision-making and future research on the subject in higher education.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Manuel de Jesús Azpilcueta Ruiz Esparza , Víctor Hugo González Torres, Alfredo Puican Carreño, Juan Diego Dávila Cisneros
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