AI Literacy for Young Learners
Excellent Educator, Volume: 3, Issue: 3, Page: 3
Summary
Academic Insights
This systematic review synthesises 25 empirical studies examining how AI literacy is conceptualised, taught, and assessed in primary education. The review analyses learning objectives, pedagogical approaches, instructional tools, and reported learning outcomes. AI literacy is framed as an extension of digital literacy that includes interaction with intelligent systems, early computational thinking, data awareness, and ethical understanding. The study highlights the effectiveness of hands-on, experiential approaches and identifies gaps in teacher preparation and curriculum guidance for primary-level AI education.
Apply These Now
Choose AI activities that make system behaviour visible and explainable.
Ensure tasks align with children’s developmental readiness.
Add These in Your Lesson
Pair simple AI interactions with discussion about data and fairness.
Encourage learners to explain outcomes in their own words.
Avoid These Mistakes
Assuming early exposure leads to understanding.
Introducing AI tools without explanation or reflection.
Keywords
AI literacy; Primary education; Young learners; Ethics; Systematic review
Source/Citation
Yim, I. H. Y., & Su, J. (2025). Artificial intelligence literacy education in primary schools: A review. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 35, 2175–2204. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-025-09979-w
Excellent Educator. (2026). AI Literacy for Young Learners. Excellent Educator, 3(3), 3.