Understanding AI acceptance among Indonesian pre-service teachers: the mediating role of anxiety and self-efficacy in a UTAUT framework

Purpose This study aims to analyze the psychological factors that influence the acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) technology among pre-service teachers in Indonesia. This study develops the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model by adding the constructs of self-efficacy and technology anxiety to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the intention to use AI in the context of higher education. Design/methodology/approach This study used a quantitative explanatory approach with a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 1,260 pre-service teachers in teacher education faculty through an online questionnaire and analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique to test the relationship between latent variables and the overall predictive power of the model. Findings The results indicated that perceived usefulness and attitude toward use significantly influenced behavioral intention to use AI. Self-efficacy increased perceived usefulness and ease of use, while anxiety decreased intention indirectly. This model provides empirical support for the development of UTAUT theory in the context of education in developing countries. Research limitations/implications The main limitation of this study is the cross-sectional design that is unable to capture the dynamics of attitude change over time. The implications of the study suggest the need for longitudinal studies and mixed approaches to better understand the contextual process of technology adoption in pre-service teacher’s education settings. Practical implications The results of this study can be used as a basis for developing pre-service teachers that not only focuses on technical skills but also builds digital self-efficacy and reduces technology anxiety. Higher education institutions are advised to design contextual learning programs and policy support that encourage sustainable AI integration. Originality/value This study provides an original contribution through the integration of psychological factors into the UTAUT model and focuses on the population of pre-service teachers in Indonesia. This study highlights the importance of the affective dimension in driving readiness for technology adoption and offers a conceptual model that is relevant to the educational context in developing countries.