Artificial Intelligence and the Whole Child Approach: Unleashing Social-Emotional Learning Potential in Primary Education

This chapter delves into the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping students' Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in primary education, examining the benefits, challenges, and future implications. With AI-enhanced tools fostering students' interpersonal skills, emotional expression, and academic resilience, schools can create dynamic, inclusive learning environments that support the Whole Child approach. However, AI integration raises critical concerns around data privacy, psychological effects, potential increases in anxiety, and the erosion of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Teachers, too, face barriers, including the lack of technical knowledge and training needed to implement AI effectively and confidently. This chapter discusses the role of educators in leveraging AI responsibility and provides key practical implications on how to prepare students for emotional and academic success in the 21st century.