A Case Study of an AI Convergence Education Program: Focusing on an Integrated Curriculum in Elementary School

Objectives This study aimed to develop an AI convergence education lesson case that can be applied to integrated curriculum for lower elementary school students, and to analyze its effectiveness by applying it to actual lessons. Methods For this purpose, AI-based educational lessons were developed in accordance with the ADDIE model and subsequently implemented over 16 sessions with 20 first-grade students from an elementary school in Daegu. In order to assess the efficacy of the aforementioned lessons, a range of methodologies were employed, including the evaluation of learning outcomes, surveys on lesson satisfaction, in-depth interviews with students, an analysis of students' diaries, and the examination of teacher's field notes. Results The results of the study indicated that integrating AI content within the framework of subject-centered convergence education in elementary schools can significantly enhance students' understanding of AI, including its principles and applications. The lessons, which were developed around themes such as the “Community, Autumn, and South Korea” taught in the first grade of elementary school, led to high levels of satisfaction among students. In particular, the projects “Creating a Sharing Market Stall,” “Getting Acquainted with Autumn,” and “Promoting Traditional Korean Foods” not only facilitated a deeper understanding of AI but also enabled students to become proficient in using AI tools. Furthermore, these activities contributed to the development of students' creative thinking and problem-solving skills, thereby demonstrating the potential of AI convergence education for supporting comprehensive learning outcomes in young learners. Conclusions The results of this study have demonstrated the potential of AI convergence education within elementary education. In order to implement AI convergence education programmes effectively for lower-grade elementary students, it is necessary to develop educational materials, enhance the technical capabilities of AI tools, and establish institutional support measures.