UNESCO Report: AI, Blockchain and XR in Lifelong Learning

Project Overview

Lifelong learning has become increasingly vital amid rapid changes in workplaces and societies driven by emerging technologies. This research aims to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI), Extended Reality (XR), and Blockchain can support adult learners in lifelong learning contexts. Drawing on 102 studies published between 2018 and 2022, the study highlights the potential of AI for personalized learning, XR for immersive experiences, and Blockchain for learner autonomy and digital credentials, while also identifying key challenges such as equity, pedagogical integration, and policy readiness.

In this project, Chohui Lee contributed as the second author, primarily managing the review and writing of the AI section.

*This research was supported by the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning.

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Problem We Found

Emerging technologies hold potential, but are poorly integrated into lifelong learning systems. Key problems and gaps identified include:

• Lack of Research and Understanding: Despite their prominence, these emerging technologies are not yet fully understood in the context of lifelong learning. Initial research is limited to case studies with limited empirical evidence.
• Digital Divide and Inclusion: A persistent digital divide exists globally in terms of internet access, mobile device ownership, and digital skills attainment. This gap is the limited attention to marginalized learners as beneficiaries of research into emerging technologies.
• Ethical Concerns and Data Privacy: The growing use of technology raises major concerns regarding the ethical use of data, data bias, and data privacy.
• Lack of Pedagogical grounding: Most technology integration in lifelong learning emphasizes technical feasibility over pedagogical or andragogical learning principles, leading to low educational impact.

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Our Approach

The research employed a systematic literature review using the PRISMA method.

• The review focused on peer-reviewed articles published in journals and conference papers.
• The search timeframe was January 2018 to April 2022.
• Three major academic databases were used: Scopus, ERIC, and Academic Search Complete, supplemented by snowballing and manual searching in Google Scholar.
• The final selection was included: AI (27), XR (30), Blockchain (45).