Summary:
This editorial article introduces AI, Brain and Child (ABC), an open-access journal focused on research on the use of artificial intelligence (AI), neuroscience, and education. The articles discusses how rapid advances in AI are changing how children learn and how education systems are designed, and argues that research is needed to understand these changes properly. The article outlines the aims of the journal and the key research priorities in this field. The authors explain that AI has strong potential to improve learning through personalised education systems that adapt to each student’s needs, learning pace and ability. However, there are also real risks such as the long-term effects of AI on children’s brain development, attention, and cognitive skills, which are still not well understood. Given that children’s brains are highly adaptable, AI-driven learning environments could have both positive and negative effects on development. While personalised learning may strengthen skills such as memory, attention and problem-solving, there are concerns that over-reliance on AI could reduce opportunities for independent thinking, critical reasoning and sustained attention. Ethical and practical challenges are also a key focus of the article. These include concerns about data privacy, algorithm bias, unequal access to technology, and the risk of widening educational inequality. The authors argue that careful regulation and ethical frameworks are needed to ensure AI is used fairly and responsibly in education, particularly to protect vulnerable and disadvantaged student groups. The authors conclude that collaboration between educators, neuroscientists, psychologists, computer scientists and policymakers is essential. They position the ABC journal as a platform to support this collaboration and to guide future research on how AI can be used safely and effectively to improve education and child development.
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Abstract:
In an era marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and cognitive neuroscience, the intersection of these fields holds transformative potential for child development and educational practices. This launch editorial introduces AI, Brain and Child (ABC), an open-access journal dedicated to exploring the dynamic interplay between AI, neuroscience, and child education. By fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue among educators, researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, ABC aims to examine the multifaceted roles of AI and neuroscience in shaping cognitive, social, and emotional growth among children. The journal seeks to democratize access to high-quality research, addressing both the beneficial applications and ethical challenges posed by AI and neuroscience technologies. Through this platform, ABC aspires to promote evidence-based practices, enhance educational outcomes, and tackle pressing developmental and educational issues. By welcoming diverse contributions—from empirical research to policy analysis—ABC endeavors to bridge the gaps between theory and practice, equipping stakeholders with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of educating children within a technologically enriched landscape. This new scholarly endeavor marks a new era of global community to partake in the crucial conversation surrounding the opportunities and responsibilities inherent in integrating AI and neuroscience into education.
Article Publication Date: 11/03/2025
DOI: 10.1007/s44436-025-00004-4
