Navigating the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence in educational leadership: A scoping review

Abstract The increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings is transforming the role of school leaders, reshaping how decisions are made, and introducing both opportunities and challenges. This paper presents the findings of a scoping review that synthesises the current literature on AI's impact on educational leadership. The review highlights that while AI has the potential to enhance decision‐making through data‐driven insights and automation of administrative tasks, its implementation requires careful consideration of ethical, equity, and human‐centred concerns. Key findings suggest that educational leaders must develop digital literacy and AI competence to critically assess AI outputs and mitigate risks, particularly related to algorithmic bias and data privacy. The review also emphasises the necessity of continuous professional development for leaders and staff to ensure effective and ethical AI integration. In light of these findings, this paper advocates for a balanced approach where AI is used to augment, rather than replace, the human elements of leadership, and calls for future empirical research to further investigate the long‐term implications of AI in diverse educational contexts. Context and implications Rationale for this study: This paper addresses the growing impact of AI on educational leadership and identify opportunities and challenges by conducting a systematic review. Why the new finding matter: The findings highlight the importance of ethical and competent AI integration. Implications for educational professionals include prioritising the development of digital and ethical skills to address challenges such as algorithmic bias and data privacy. Implication for teachers and policymakers: Policymakers must invest in training and ensure equitable access to technology to prevent widening the digital divide. Additionally, researchers should delve into the long‐term effects of AI in diverse educational contexts.