Application of Artificial Intelligence in Educational Management and Smart Curriculum Design

Abstract

This study aimed to systematically review and analyze research on the roles, challenges, and requirements of applying artificial intelligence (AI) in educational management and smart curriculum design. This qualitative systematic review employed inductive content analysis. Data were collected from international databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, and Google Scholar. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 studies published between 2020 and 2025 were selected. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo 14 software, and open, axial, and selective coding was performed until theoretical saturation was achieved. Qualitative analysis revealed three major themes in AI applications within education: (1) the role of AI in educational management, including data-driven decision-making, resource allocation, and process automation; (2) the use of AI in smart curriculum design, such as personalized learning, dynamic assessment, and intelligent content generation; and (3) implementation requirements and challenges, encompassing technological, ethical, cultural, and economic issues. The findings indicate that AI can enhance learning quality, optimize curriculum structures, and promote educational equity, provided that adequate technical, legal, and cultural frameworks are established. AI holds strong potential to revolutionize educational management and curriculum design, guiding educational systems toward data-informed decision-making, adaptive learning, and human-centered pedagogy. However, this transformation’s success depends on technological infrastructure development, digital literacy enhancement among educators, and the establishment of clear ethical policies.