Parents in South Korea question AI textbook program

Over 50,000 parents have signed a petition urging the government to prioritise student well-being over new tech.
Parents in South Korea are concerned about the government's plan to introduce AI-powered textbooks in classrooms.

Plans to introduce AI-powered textbooks in South Korean classrooms have sparked concerns among parents. The government aims to roll out tablets with these advanced textbooks next year, with the goal of using them across all subjects by 2028, excluding music, art, physical education, and ethics. The AI textbooks will be designed to adapt to different learning speeds, and teachers will monitor student progress through dashboards.

However, many parents are uneasy about the impact of this new technology on their children’s well-being. Over 50,000 have signed a petition urging the government to prioritise overall student health rather than focusing solely on technological advancements. They argue that excessive exposure to digital devices is already causing unprecedented issues.

One concerned parent, Lee Sun-youn, highlighted worries about the potential negative effects on children’s brain development and concentration. She pointed out that students in South Korea are already heavily reliant on smartphones and tablets, and increased screen time in classrooms could exacerbate these problems.

The government has yet to provide detailed information on how the AI textbook program will be implemented. As the rollout approaches, the debate over the balance between technology and student welfare continues to intensify.