<b>Competências digitais discentes para o uso de inteligência artificial</b> <b>no ensino superior a distância</b>

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been increasingly integrated into distance higher education, requiring students to develop digital competencies for effective utilization. However, there are gaps in the literature regarding the essential competencies for this interaction and their impact on the educational process. Objective: This study aims to identify the digital competencies necessary for the effective use of AI by distance higher education students, as well as to map challenges and opportunities in applying these competencies to learning. Methodology: A Systematic Literature Review was conducted following the guidelines of Kitchenham and Charters (2007), considering articles published between 2020 and 2025. The research included searches in recognized databases and applied rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria for the selection of analyzed studies. Results: The findings highlight digital literacy, critical thinking, self-learning, and adaptation to emerging technologies as essential competencies. Additionally, tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, learning analytics, and educational chatbots were identified. The challenges include a lack of infrastructure, difficulties in technological adaptation, and the need for continuous training. Conclusion: AI has great potential to enhance distance education, but its implementation requires investment in digital training and infrastructure. Future research should further explore the impact of digital competencies on learning and investigate pedagogical strategies to maximize AI’s benefits in higher education.