Analysis of the Opportunities and Challenges of Using AI to Strengthen Elementary School Students' Citizenship Character

Ulfah Sari Rezeki (Universitas Quality, Indonesia)
Sabrina Ikwani (Universitas Quality, Indonesia)
Aria Suma Febrranta Tarigan (Universitas Quality, Indonesia)
Nur Afni (Universitas Quality, Indonesia)

Global Education Journal
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): Global Education Journal (GEJ)

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed various aspects of education, including learning strategies and character development among elementary school students. Along with its potential to improve the quality of learning, AI also presents challenges related to ethics, digital literacy, critical thinking, and the formation of students' civic character. This study aims to analyze the opportunities and challenges of AI utilization in strengthening the civic character of elementary school students. The research employed a qualitative approach using a descriptive case study design conducted at UPT SD Negeri 060884, Medan Baru District, Medan City, North Sumatra, Indonesia, an A-accredited public elementary school selected because of its educational quality and its relevance to the implementation of technology-supported learning. The data were collected through interviews, observations, documentation, and literature review involving the principal, teachers, and upper-grade students. Data were analyzed using the interactive model of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that AI provides significant opportunities to strengthen civic character through personalized learning, interactive learning media, and the enhancement of digital literacy, critical thinking, responsibility, and democratic values. However, AI implementation also faces challenges, including teachers' digital competence, unequal technological infrastructure, ethical concerns regarding AI use, and the potential overreliance on AI-generated information. Therefore, effective collaboration among teachers, parents, schools, and policymakers is essential to ensure that AI serves as a learning support tool without replacing the teacher's fundamental role in character education. The study concludes that AI can effectively strengthen students' civic character when implemented ethically, responsibly, and in accordance with the values of Pancasila and the objectives of civic education in elementary schools.