The AI generation: Balancing technology and socialization in education

The rapid advancement of generative AI is transforming how children interact, learn, and socialize. Surveys show that 45% of high school students already use OpenAI platforms, such as ChatGPT, to deal with friendship, relationship, and mental health issues. There are many outstanding questions about the impact that these developments will have on children’s development and socialization. As generative AI becomes more readily accessible in schools and at home, researchers worry that younger students may face reduced opportunities for critical social interactions that are essential for the development of emotional intelligence, empathy, and communication skills.

In an effort to address some of these questions, the new Brookings Global Taskforce on AI and Education has embarked on a two-year initiative to conduct a “premortem” on generative AI in the context of global education.

On May 6, the Center for Universal Education will host a conversation led by Isabelle Hau, executive director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning and author of “Love to Learn.” A panel discussion exploring the impacts of AI in children’s lives will follow, featuring experts in early learning, mental health and technology, and research on AI companions.

Viewers can submit questions by emailing [email protected] or on X/Twitter @BrookingsGlobal using #AIinEducation.