Transforming Clicks into Critical Thinking: An AI-Based Media Literacy Program for Children

This study investigates the pedagogical impact of an AI-enhanced critical media literacy program implemented with fourth-grade students in a public primary school. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research combined quantitative data from the Critical Media Literacy Scale for Primary Students with qualitative insights from interviews, student artifacts, and classroom observations. The 18-hour intervention followed the 5E instructional model and integrated generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly. Aligned with the national Turkish and Social Studies curricula, the program ensured curricular coherence and contextual relevance. Quantitative findings revealed significant gains in students’ media literacy skills, particularly in reading and writing. Qualitative data highlighted developments in digital safety, source verification, online ethics, and media critique. Students also showed enhanced awareness of ethical digital behavior and reflective media use. These results underscore the potential of AI-supported instruction to foster critical thinking, digital citizenship, and media literacy in early education settings.