From Digital Schools to Intelligent Schools: Exploring AI Governance Practices Among Educational Leaders in Managing Responsible Innovation

Abstract

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed educational organizations from digital-based institutions toward intelligent schools. However, successful AI transformation requires more than technological adoption; it requires effective governance, leadership capacity, and responsible innovation practices. This study aims to explore how educational leaders implement AI governance practices in managing responsible innovation within educational organizations. A qualitative research approach was employed through semi-structured interviews and document analysis involving educational leaders, digital transformation coordinators, and educational technology managers. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns related to AI governance leadership, organizational learning capacity, and responsible AI innovation. The findings revealed three major themes: First, educational leaders are shifting from technology managers toward AI governance leaders who establish strategic policies and ethical frameworks. Second, organizational learning capacity serves as the foundation for developing AI readiness among educators. Third, responsible AI innovation requires balancing technological efficiency with ethical accountability and human-centered educational values. This study contributes to educational management research by proposing an AI governance perspective for intelligent school transformation, emphasizing that sustainable AI implementation depends on organizational capability rather than technological infrastructure alone.