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  2. EDU T595

AI and the Developing Child: Seminar
EDU T595

Course Information

Description

This course offers an introduction to the emerging field of AI and child development. As AI becomes increasingly present in children’s homes, schools, and digital environments, researchers are only beginning to understand how children make sense of AI, learn from it, trust it, and are shaped by it. The course is designed to give students a clear understanding of the current state of research on AI and children, from early childhood through adolescence.

Through readings, discussions, simulations, and design activities, students will examine cutting-edge questions in this fast-moving area. Topics may include how children understand and interact with AI systems; how they decide when to trust or question AI-generated information; how AI’s social identity, voice, or embodiment influences children’s learning; and how generative AI tools may affect curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and social development.

The course has three goals. First, students will learn key theories and empirical findings from current research at the intersection of AI, learning, and child development. Second, students will become familiar with research methods used to study children’s interactions with AI, including how researchers investigate questions that do not yet have settled answers. Third, students will consider how developmental theory and research evidence can inform the design of child-centered AI systems.

By the end of the course, students will be prepared to think critically about the promises and risks of AI for children and to contribute thoughtfully to the development, evaluation, and promotion of AI technologies that are inclusive, safe, and beneficial for young people.

Note:

  • This course is a redesigned version of T595, which was offered in the previous two years. The main difference is that this version moves at a quicker pace, shifting from a full-semester course to a Fall 1 course. In addition, the final project is no longer a stand-alone research or design project, but is instead more closely tied to the readings and activities throughout Fall 1. These changes are intended to give students a timely and accessible introduction to current AI research while allowing the course to remain responsive to the rapid evolution of the field and emerging questions about AI and children’s learning and development.
  • Students enrolled in T596: AI and the Developing Child: Research Practicum are required to attend this course. If you are already enrolled in T596, you do not need to register for this course separately.

School Graduate School of Education
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Department Education
Course Component Regular Course
Instruction Mode In Person
Subject Education
Grading Basis HGSE Student Option (Letter Graded, Sat/Unsat)
Learning Goals Students will gain exposure to key theories, empirical findings, and open questions in this emerging field. The course may be especially relevant for students interested in education, child development, psychology, technology design, policy, AI ethics, or youth-serving work.
Career Focus <p>This course is designed for students who want a broad introduction to current research on AI, children, and learning. It is a good fit for students who are curious about how AI is shaping young people’s development, education, social relationships, and everyday lives.</p>