From Digital Literacy to Artificial Intelligence Competence: An Integrative Review of Competence Development in the Education-To-Work Transition

Abstract

Digital and artificial intelligence (AI) competence is increasingly important to education–employment transitions, but evidence remains fragmented. This integrative review synthesised 69 Chinese- and English-language thematic sources. Findings show that competence extends beyond technical skills to information processing, problem-solving, critical judgement, ethical responsibility and contextual application. Effective development combines formal curricula, authentic tasks, work-based learning and continuing support, while assessment requires knowledge, performance and process evidence. Employment benefits depend on competence being recognised, applied to occupational tasks and supported by appropriate job matching and organisations. A six-stage framework links resources, competence formation, assessment, task application, job matching and employment outcomes, with inequality, governance and well-being shaping the pathway.