Young people and AI

Digital technology is becoming a ubiquitous feature of our everyday lives. But what does this mean for young people, their education, careers and lives as they navigate their future?

Synopsis

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In June 2024, UCL Public Policy facilitated an interdisciplinary workshop with researchers, practitioners and policy makers to explore the topic, opportunities and research and policy evidence gaps on creating a safe and engaging AI future for young people. Among the many questions we had, we asked:

• How can AI be used as a resource to positively impact and transform young people’s working, learning and living?
• How do we engage young people, especially from underserved backgrounds, to follow a path in STEM?
• What do we need to know to develop evidence-based policy solutions?

Opportunities for research and policy

The workshop discussion identified many challenges and opportunities for further research and policy development centred on the impact and prospects for young people presented by AI technologies. 

Challenges remain as to how to increase young people’s agency in both research and policy making. There is a need to create greater equity of voice in both domains, for example through greater co-production with young people, parents, developers, practitioners and specialists, as well as better understanding of the range of young peoples’ personas.

Concurrently, there is a need to understand and develop the evidence base that will engender change, particularly from those with vested interest in the sector or concerned to see economic benefits. 

Find out more about the ideas discussed in the workshop through the immersive digital illustration and summary report below.  

Read the report