Teachers’ technopedagogical competence and perspectives on artificial intelligence use in education

Digitalization has made technology-supported materials essential, yet their practical use remains inefficient. This study investigates the link between teachers’ technopedagogical competencies and their perspectives on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into education. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach, research was conducted with 297 teachers in Gaziantep during the 2024–2025 academic year. Quantitative data was collected via an Intelligent TPACK framework scale, while qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 participants. Data analysis included t-tests, ANOVA, Scheffé post hoc tests, and content analysis. Results indicate that teachers' AI-related technopedagogical skills are at a low-to-moderate level. While gender showed no significant difference, variables such as age, seniority and prior experience with Web 2.0 or AI tools caused notable differences. Qualitatively, teachers reported using AI for instructional design, assessment efficiency, and professional development. However, concerns were raised regarding data security, overreliance, and the lack of emotional depth in AI interactions. Ultimately, the study concludes that AI should serve as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for teachers.