Impact of Gen AI
Young people, learning, and generative AI: A rapid literature review and implications for PreK-12 education
In August 2026 the Barker Institute and the Univeristy of Sydney partnered to publish an important academic report. It consisted of a literature review of all available academic evidence regarding GenAI in PreK-12 education. This report, and launch webinar, are now publicly available to educators, policy makers, and parents to ensure we collectively care for our young people in the best possible way.
975 publications were screened and 271 met the selection criteria for inclusion which were synthesised to produce the 52-page report.
Click here to dowload the full report.
The webinars (held in early August) were split into two parts. First, the authors presented the academic findings including outcomes, conditions, and recommendations. Then a team of Barker staff explained how already the academic evidence has impacted practice including influencing teaching and learning, carefully supporting primary school students, and in assessment.
Watch the webinar below.
Dr Matthew Hill
Dr Matthew Hill is the Director of The Barker Institute with a focus on professional learning, research, and innovation in the school. He teaches Physics and the new Science Extension course at the School which introduces students to scientific academic research. Matthew's doctorate reflects his passion for science education focussing on Representational Fluency amongst physics students at school and university. He has published in leadership, education, and science journals and been involved in course development and teaching at The University of Sydney and The University of Western Sydney. He has also completed a Graduate Diploma in Divinity at Ridley College in Melbourne.
