To support a wide range of research activities that contribute to achieving the SDGs, the Social Engagement Fund (SEF) program was launched in July of 2018. Students and researchers around the world were called to submit research and project proposals that emphasized implementing and evaluating the impact of the SDGs, which can also result in tangible outputs on top of knowledge alone. The entries were screened by a number of expert panels.
Research and Activity Objectives and Content This study aims to design an AI-based educational program that enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of global citizenship education. The program seeks to develop learners’ global competence, digital literacy, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship. To verify its effectiveness, the study uses learners’ comprehension, satisfaction, and development of global citizenship awareness as main evaluation indicators. It also explores how AI-based learning differs from traditional teaching methods.
Research and Activity Plans or Methodology The research will be carried out through a systematic process, from problem identification to follow-up research planning. Each stage builds logically on the previous one to ensure validity and reliability. The process includes the following steps: problem identification → setting research objectives → research design → implementation of a 5-week curriculum → data collection → analysis → establishment of future research directions.
Expected Effects and Follow-up Plans The study begins with an AI-based global citizenship education program for middle and high school students in Songdo, with plans to expand and test its general applicability. The program will be applied to diverse learner groups to evaluate its effectiveness and scalability, building a foundation for broader dissemination both nationally and internationally.
The study also aims to encourage learners to see AI as a learning partner rather than just a tool. Sessions on ethical AI use will be included to help learners understand its potential and limitations responsibly. The research will test how AI ethics education affects the sustainability of learning outcomes and whether performance is maintained or improved.
Finally, the findings may provide insights for international organizations such as UNESCO in developing AI-based materials for global citizenship education. They could help identify effective content design principles, interactive elements that promote empathy and critical thinking, and ethical and technical standards that ensure equity and accessibility. This study contributes to achieving inclusive, high-quality education and provides strategic direction for global educational cooperation.