FOSTERING IMAGINATION IN EARLY YEARS LEARNERS: INTEGRATING AI WITH WORDLESS PICTURE BOOKS AND STORYTELLING

Abstract

Developing the imagination of early years learners is paramount to an all-round development that fosters a life-long learning process. Imagination is the framework on which a child’s thoughts, mind and perspectives are shaped for effective learning and achievement of set goals. Due to the advent of technology and most importantly, Artificial Intelligence (AI), it has become expedient to incorporate Artificial Intelligence in early years’ learning process in order to help them develop their imaginative thought processes using AI wordless picture books and storytelling. In terms of methodology, the data were collected using existing literatures on the subject matter and personal experiences of the researchers. The paper highlights how Artificial Intelligence (AI) wordless picture books and storytelling can be used to foster the imagination of early years learners. The paper reveals that since children often learn by what they see, using AI tools will give varying resources on wordless picture books and storytelling to shape the imagination of early years learners. The paper recommended above all that teachers of early years learners should be properly trained on how to apply AI wordless picture books and storytelling in the learning process; curriculum planners should incorporate AI-enabled tools while planning early years learners’ curriculum, and early years learners should be taught on how to use AI tools and monitored by teachers and parents when accessing these AI tools to avoid distractions or revealing private details and access to unwanted materials.