How Ready Are Future Educators for the Digital Age? The Intersection of AI Literacy and 21st Century Skills in Sports Education Students

Abstract: This study aims to examine the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) literacy levels and 21st-century skill self-efficacy perceptions among university students enrolled in faculties of sports sciences. Designed within the framework of a correlational survey model, the sample consists of 410 students from various departments in Faculties of Sports Sciences across Turkey. The data were collected using the \\\"Artificial Intelligence Literacy Scale\\\" and the \\\"21st Century Skills Self-Efficacy Perception Scale.\\\" Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, employing independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Tukey HSD, and Spearman correlation tests. The findings revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between AI literacy and 21st-century skills. Additionally, significant differences were identified based on demographic variables such as age, class level, and department. These results underscore the necessity of integrating digital literacy and 21st-century competencies holistically in contemporary teacher education. Systematically developing these competencies within teacher training and sports sciences programs should be regarded as a strategic imperative to adequately prepare future educators for the digital era.