Effects of AI-Based Picture Book Activities on Young Children's Language Expression Ability and Digital Literacy

Abstract

Background: The rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has increased the need for new teaching and learning approaches in early childhood education. However, empirical studies examining the educational effects of generative AI-based activities for young children remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an AI-based picture book activity program and investigate its effects on children’s language expression ability and digital literacy.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted with 39 five-year-old children from two kindergartens in Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea. The experimental group participated in an AI-based picture book activity program, whereas the comparison group engaged in general picture book and art activities based on the Nuri Curriculum. The intervention was implemented over 10 sessions for 6 weeks. The program applied a four-phase instructional model and utilized generative AI tools, including Book Creator, ChatGPT, Gemini Storybook, Readkidz, and Canva. Pre- and post-tests of language expression ability and digital literacy were conducted, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used for data analysis.

Results: ANCOVA using pre-test scores as covariates revealed that the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher scores in Story Embellishment Matching the Content, media use competency, and overall language expression ability and digital literacy than the comparison group following the intervention. Although the overall language expression ability and digital literacy showed significant group differences, the group difference in Story Embellishment with Coherence did not reach statistical significance, showing only a marginal positive trend.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that AI-based picture book activities can serve as meaningful educational experiences that support young children’s language expression ability and digital literacy within developmentally appropriate and play-based learning environments. The study also highlights the importance of teacher mediation and AI literacy in effectively implementing AI-based activities in early childhood education settings.