Readiness of Media Education for Smart Transformation: A Foresight Vision for Curriculum Development According to Saudi Labor Market Requirements

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the readiness of the Bachelor of Digital Media curriculum at Saudi Electronic University for smart transformation and its alignment with the requirements of the Saudi media labor market, with the aim of developing a foresight vision for curriculum development. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach within a case-study design, using a purposive sample of program courses and a content analysis form comprising three main dimensions: smart knowledge and technologies, professional skills and applications, and professional values and alignment with labor market requirements. The findings showed a strong presence of core digital media components, with digital media technologies accounting for 90%, platforms and communication technologies 83.3%, and digital content production 86.7%. In contrast, the presence of artificial intelligence was limited to 30%, while algorithms and generative tools accounted for 23.3%, and artificial intelligence and data analysis tools for 33.3%. The findings also revealed notable gaps between the curriculum and labor market requirements, reaching 53.3% in artificial intelligence and algorithms, 40% in data and audience analysis, and 30% in digital verification. Professional values were relatively well represented, particularly accuracy and credibility (80%) and professional responsibility (76.7%); however, artificial intelligence ethics and algorithmic bias were represented at only 23.3%. The study concludes that media education should move beyond conventional digital curriculum development toward comprehensive readiness for smart transformation by integrating artificial intelligence, data analytics, applied digital skills, and technology ethics, while continuously aligning learning outcomes with emerging competencies required by the Saudi labor market.