Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) Into Instructional Strategies To Enhance Critical Thinking in Primary Schools

Abstrak

This study investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be effectively integrated into instructional strategies to enhance critical thinking skills among primary school students. The study adopts a literature review method by examining peer-reviewed journal articles, academic reports, and research findings published between 2020 and 2025. All sources were selected based on relevance, credibility, and accessibility from open academic databases. The findings indicate that AI can be integrated into primary education through intelligent tutoring systems (ITS), educational chatbots, adaptive learning platforms, and data-driven learning analytics. These tools enable personalized, reflective, and engaging learning environments. AI has shown positive effects in promoting students’ analytical, evaluative, and logical reasoning abilities, which are key dimensions of critical thinking. As a conceptual literature-based study, this research does not include empirical field data or classroom experiments. The scope is limited to the availability of open-access academic sources, excluding paid or restricted publications. This study offers a theoretical foundation and practical direction for educators, policymakers, and technology developers in utilizing AI responsibly and effectively within elementary education. The research emphasizes the importance of teacher readiness, ethical guidelines, and infrastructural support to ensure meaningful integration of AI in enhancing students’ cognitive development, particularly critical thinking.