Balancing the efficiency of and ethical concerns surrounding artificial intelligence for responsible management education: a scoping review

Purpose This study aims to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) transforms knowledge processes within responsible management education (RME). By mapping existing research, the paper explores the adoption and application of AI within management education and its consequences for teaching, ethical concerns and knowledge management. Design/methodology/approach A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA guidelines to synthesize evidence from 40 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025. The review systematically analyzed literature across Scopus and Web of Science using thematic mapping aligned with knowledge management clusters. Findings AI is transforming how knowledge is created and shared in higher education. It improves efficiency by automating knowledge retrieval and connecting human insight with machine learning to support innovation in teaching and research. Yet, these advantages come with serious ethical concerns, including plagiarism, bias, data privacy and a lack of transparency that can undermine academic integrity. The review also reveals a strong concentration of research in developed countries. Practical implications The findings highlight the need for HEIs to adopt comprehensive frameworks that integrate knowledge management systems with ethical governance mechanisms. Universities can leverage AI to strengthen absorptive capacity and organizational learning while instituting clear accountability, transparency and data ethics protocols to ensure responsible AI adoption in education and research. Originality/value This study advances knowledge management research by linking AI-driven knowledge processes with the ethical and sustainability principles of RME. It broadens existing theory by showing how the transformation of knowledge, from individual insight to collective learning, and the view of knowledge as a strategic organizational resource can be aligned with responsible and transparent innovation.