Redefining Student Engagement in the Age of AI: Engagement With AI (EWAI) Model

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is transforming student engagement, requiring the reconsideration of traditional models. While engagement theories like Expectancy-Value and Self-Determination provide valuable insights, GenAI's personalized learning and automation call for a new perspective. This chapter introduces the Engagement with AI (EWAI) model, integrating AI research with existing theories. It explores engagement at micro (learner traits) and macro (institutional) levels, highlighting curiosity, analytical thinking, and ethics. The role of AI-supportive environments, including infrastructure and educator training, is emphasized. GenAI enhances engagement through personalized feedback but poses risks like overreliance, academic integrity issues, and algorithmic bias. AI-e nhanced tasks should align with autonomy support and collaboration for meaningful learning. The EWAI model provides a structured framework for AI integration, ensuring ethical and equitable use. © 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.