Developing students' competency in constructing scientific explanations is a critical aspect of science learning. However, limited research has been conducted to explore the role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) in fostering this competency. Moreover, the factors influencing this competency development in the Gen AI-assisted learning environment remain underexamined. This study aimed to compare students' competency in constructing scientific explanations before and after participating in phenomenon-based learning with Microsoft Copilot and to investigate the factors influencing the development of this competency. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was employed with 23 eighth-grade students from an all-girls school in Thailand. The research instruments included lesson plans for phenomenon-based learning with Microsoft Copilot, a competency test for constructing scientific explanations, and a mixed-format questionnaire. The results from the Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Test revealed a statistically significant improvement in students' competency in constructing scientific explanations after the learning intervention (Z = 4.213, p < .001). Thematic analysis identified four key factors contributing to this development: (a) the role of Microsoft Copilot in enhancing deep understanding, (b) connecting theories to real-world phenomena through learning media, (c) collaborative learning activities, and (d) enjoyable learning experiences and student engagement. These findings suggest that the integration of Gen AI technology with phenomenon-based learning can effectively enhance students’ competency in constructing scientific explanations and provide valuable insights for the development of technology-enhanced science education. 

Globalization, digitalization, and evolving national regulations have intensified the need for rigorous quality-assurance systems to secure accreditation in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This study asks: What theoretical contributions underpin HEI accreditation, and how have research themes evolved? Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Bibliometric Analysis via Biblioshiny and Vantage Point, we examined 1,252 documents indexed in Scopus® (781) and Web of Science™ (471) from 2012 to May 2025. Findings delineate three production phases—Foundation Consolidation (2012–2017), Expansion and Diversification (2017–2020), and Sustained Transformation and Innovation (2020–2025)—and three thematic perspectives: (a) Teaching and Learning Quality, (b) Technology and Sustainability as Quality Catalysts, and (c) Governance, Management, and Accountability. Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) identified three Motor Theme clusters—[1] Sustainable Development and Institutional Change, [2] Technological Pedagogy and Student Experience, and [3] Governance and Regulation—led by Spain, the United States, Chile, Colombia, the UK, Australia, and India. Conclusions underscore accreditation’s dual role as a strategic lever for institutional improvement and a competitive mechanism, with emerging focus on competency, e-learning, employability, machine learning, and sustainability. Future research should explore cross-border accreditation dynamics; the impact of AACSB and NAAC standards on business-school curriculum design and program quality; accreditation’s pedagogical effects; and leadership practices for effective implementation.