Application of artificial intelligence in early childhood development: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Child Development
• Artificial Intelligence
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Early childhood (0-6 years) is critical for cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
• This period is optimal for early interventions.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in early childhood are rapidly expanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize research on AI applications for early childhood development (birth to 6 years).
• To identify predominant AI technologies and their use across various contexts.
• To provide a roadmap for stakeholders on AI's role in supporting young children's development.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Systematic search across multiple databases (PsycINFO, ERIC, MEDLINE, etc.).
• Thematic and content analyses to synthesize AI product types, applications, and developmental impacts, with AI assisting in screening and data extraction.

Main Results:

• AI is applied directly by children, interactors (parents, educators), and indirect supporters (researchers, policymakers).
• Identifies predominant AI technologies and their specific applications within different early childhood contexts.
• Examines the impact of AI on children's developmental outcomes.

Conclusions:

• AI offers diverse opportunities to support early childhood development.
• Understanding AI's application landscape is crucial for effective implementation.
• Further research can optimize AI tools for enhanced child development outcomes.