Kean University Professor Jennifer Chen, Ed.D., is conducting research on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in early childhood education. Her studies focus on children aged 3 to 8 and address how educators and families can use AI ethically, responsibly, and effectively.
Chen’s recent articles in AI Enhanced Learning and Early Childhood Education Journal examine both the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into learning environments. She finds that while AI can improve students’ learning and comprehension, it also raises ethical concerns.
Sancha K. Gray, Ed.D., acting dean of Kean’s College of Education, said, “Professor Chen’s research reflects Kean’s commitment to innovation in education. By examining both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI, she is helping educators lead in an evolving digital landscape.”
A significant part of Chen’s work focuses on protecting children’s rights to data protection, safety, and well-being as they interact with digital tools. She stated, “AI is a double-edged sword. It can be beneficial, but we must ensure that children’s well-being is safeguarded and that parents and teachers understand how these technologies are being used for, with and by children.”
Chen points out that young children often do not understand the risks involved with sharing personal information through AI tools or receiving biased or inappropriate content from AI systems. She also highlights concerns about long-term digital footprints left by children.
“AI companies often collect children’s data, yet few are transparent about where it goes or how it is used,” Chen said. “I’m advocating for AI companies to clearly communicate their policies, including data collection and consent, so that families can make informed decisions.”
Despite these concerns, Chen identifies positive uses for AI in classrooms. For example, she describes a second-grade teacher using an AI platform to customize lessons for bilingual students to provide more personalized instruction.
Her research efforts are supported by Kean University’s emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. According to Chen: “President Repollet has really supported AI research across the University. We now have workshops on the use of AI for teaching and student learning and a bachelor’s degree in AI. I’m collaborating with colleagues in the Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology on an NSF grant proposal, exchanging perspectives and continuing the good work in the AI field with innovative ideas for providing training on research in AI to teachers and students.”
Looking forward, Chen aims to help teachers and parents integrate AI into education safely and ethically so school districts can support children’s development through technology.
“Early childhood education is where everything starts,” she said. “Children are encountering AI as early as preschool. Educators need the proper training and tools to use it responsibly and help children build AI literacy from the very beginning.”
