The mediating and moderating role of digital well-being in the relationship between artificial intelligence competence, computational thinking, and virtual risk perception

Abstract

This study examines the relationships among artificial intelligence competence, computational thinking, and virtual risk perception within digital learning environments, focusing on the mediating and moderating role of digital well-being. The research was conducted with a cross-cultural sample of 456 university students from Türkiye, Malta, Ghana, Canada, and Brazil. Data were collected using validated measurement instruments and analyzed through regression-based mediation and moderation analyses using Jamovi software. The findings revealed that both artificial intelligence competence and computational thinking significantly and positively predict digital well-being. In addition, all three variables, artificial intelligence competence, computational thinking, and digital well-being, were found to significantly predict virtual risk perception. Mediation analyses demonstrated that digital well-being serves as a significant mediator in the relationship between the independent variables and virtual risk perception. Furthermore, moderation analyses demonstrated that digital well-being significantly alters the strength of these relationships, suggesting that individuals with higher digital well-being may perceive virtual risks differently compared to those with lower digital well-being. Cross-cultural comparisons also revealed significant differences across countries. Overall, the findings highlight digital wellbeing as a central construct that reflects individual digital experiences and shapes how technological competencies influence risk perception. The study provides important implications for the design of AIsupported learning environments and the development of global educational policies, particularly in how these environments can be tailored to enhance digital well-being and address the varying technological competencies and risk perceptions across different cultures.