BETWEEN EFFICIENCY AND AUTONOMY: GENERATION X AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE UNIVERSITY PUBLIC SERVICE

Abstract

This article presents a research report that investigated the perceptions and challenges experienced by Generation X professionals regarding the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies within the context of the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel). The research used a mixed methods approach and a descriptive character, adopting a case study design. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire with 71 administrative staff and professors, in addition to semi-structured interviews with two managers. Data analysis integrated descriptive statistics and the Directed Content Analysis technique. The main results revealed a critical and conditional acceptance of AI. Although the technology is considered relevant for efficiency, its adoption faces structural challenges, highlighting the insufficiency of institutional training (73.2%), the risk of algorithmic biases (60.6%) and the absence of clear governance guidelines (59.2%). In addition, 87.3% of respondents rated the training offer as regular or unsatisfactory, which generates inefficiency and learning based on "trial and error". It is concluded that the effectiveness of digital transformation depends on the alignment between systems integration, ethical data governance and the implementation of mandatory training, maintaining human autonomy in decisions.