Enhancing novelty and usefulness: evaluating the effects of the GenAIR PBL module on creativity in preschoolers

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the impact of the GenAIR PBL module, a project-based learning (PBL) framework integrating generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and augmented reality (AR), on preschoolers’ creativity. Design/methodology/approach An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed. A nonequivalent control-group quasi-experimental design was used, involving 47 preschoolers. The experimental group used the GenAIR PBL module, while the control group received traditional PBL. Creativity was measured using the Preschoolers’ Creativity Test (PCT). Quantitative data from pre- and posttests were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVAs). Subsequently, thematic analysis of teacher interviews provided qualitative insights to explain the quantitative findings. Findings The GenAIR PBL module was associated with significantly higher scores in overall creativity than traditional PBL. Improvements were observed in both novelty and usefulness, with a stronger effect on novelty. Teacher interviews helped explain these findings, highlighting the supportive roles of the module’s multimodal tasks, AR-supported visualizations and GenAI-facilitated dialogues. Research limitations/implications The study’s single-region sample may limit generalizability. Future research should test the module across diverse cultural and technological contexts. Despite this, the findings suggest that integrating the GenAIR PBL module into preschool curricula may support creativity. Practical implications The findings suggest that the GenAIR PBL module may serve as a promising approach to support creativity in preschool curricula. Educators may use it to design activities that promote imaginative and divergent thinking. Its design may offer a reference for kindergartens seeking to integrate GenAI and AR within inquiry-based instruction. Social implications By supporting novelty and usefulness among young children, the module may contribute to the early development of innovative thinking. However, given the small sample and single-site design, these implications should be interpreted with caution. Originality/value This study provides empirical evidence on the effects of the GenAIR PBL module on preschoolers’ creativity. It suggests how the integrated use of GenAI and AR within PBL may strengthen creativity. The findings extend emerging work on GenAI and AR in early childhood education and may inform educational practice and future research on technology-integrated instruction in this field.