AI and the Developing Child: Myths, Evidence, and Open Questions

This talk will focus on the role and impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on children’s cognitive and social development. It will highlight how children interact with, perceive, and learn from AI systems, including how they develop trust in these “AI companions.” The talk will also discuss emerging evidence and open questions regarding how generative AI tools shape children’s curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. It will conclude with a discussion of how social science researchers can amplify their collective voice to ensure that AI is developed and implemented in ways that are safe and beneficial for children.

Speaker: Yung Xu, Harvard University