STRATEGIC INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT: A MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE TRANSFORMATION IN PHILIPPINE HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

This study investigates the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Total Quality Management (TQM) frameworks to advance sustainable transformation in Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Using a quantitative correlational design, the research surveyed 350 faculty and administrative staff engaged in quality assurance and digital transformation. Results revealed a high level of AI adoption across academic and administrative domains, particularly in performance monitoring, compliance reporting, and learning management systems. Respondents perceived AI as highly effective in enhancing quality assurance through data accuracy, standardization, and real-time monitoring. Key enablers included leadership support, digital infrastructure, and policy alignment, while barriers involved resistance to change, budget constraints, and data privacy concerns. Findings confirmed that AI–TQM integration significantly contributes to institutional efficiency, innovation, stakeholder satisfaction, and resilience. A Strategic AI–TQM Integration Model was developed, comprising governance, policy and ethics, infrastructure, culture, process integration, and sustainability outcomes. The study concludes that a structured AI-enabled quality system provides a roadmap for long-term sustainability in HEIs.