A robot sat on top of a pile of books reading a blue book

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A is for ‘artificial intelligence’: Why researchers are creating a children’s book and Dungeons & Dragons-style game to teach AI

Computer scientists at Loughborough University are combining fun and education to create an A-to-Z picture book that introduces children to artificial intelligence (AI).

Using engaging illustrations and simple text, the book - suitable for ages five to 11 - aims to spark children's curiosity and introduce them to the technology shaping the future.

Funded by the UKRI’s Responsible AI UK programme, the 12-month project will also see researchers collaborating with game designers to create a scenario-based megagame aimed at older children (12+) and adults.

Inspired by popular games like Dungeons & Dragons, the megagame will blend tabletop, role-playing, and applied games to immerse players in scenarios that challenge them to think critically about real-world AI applications and their impact on society.

Professor Oli Buckley, the project lead, says these resources are needed as “it is more important than ever that we equip young people with a solid understanding of artificial intelligence”.

He explained: “AI is going to play a huge role in shaping the future of society, and it is important to foster early education.

“We want to ensure that the next generation grows up not only with the technical knowledge but also with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the ethical and societal challenges AI presents.

“Through creative formats, we aim to make complex AI concepts accessible, fun, and thought-provoking.

“Our project ensures that learners of all ages can engage with AI in meaningful ways, preparing them for the AI-driven future.”

Once completed, the book and game will be freely accessible online. Workshops and pilot sessions will also be held to introduce the materials to educators and students.

For information on collaboration opportunities, contact Professor Oli Buckley at: o.buckley@lboro.ac.uk

The project, titled ‘Exploring AI: From picture books to epic games’, brings together Professor Buckley, Dr Magda Zajaczkowska from Loughborough University, Professor Sarah Morris from the University of Southampton, and Jake Montanarini from Norwich University of the Arts.

Notes for editors

Press release reference number: 24/180

Loughborough is one of the country’s leading universities, with an international reputation for research that matters, excellence in teaching, strong links with industry, and unrivalled achievement in sport and its underpinning academic disciplines.

It has been awarded five stars in the independent QS Stars university rating scheme and named the best university in the world for sports-related subjects in the 2024 QS World University Rankings – the eighth year running.

Loughborough is ranked 6th in The UK Complete University Guide 2025, 10th in the Guardian University League Table 2024 and 10th in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

Loughborough is consistently ranked in the top twenty of UK universities in the Times Higher Education’s ‘table of tables’, and in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 over 90% of its research was rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally-excellent’. In recognition of its contribution to the sector, Loughborough has been awarded seven Queen's Anniversary Prizes.

The Loughborough University London campus is based on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and offers postgraduate and executive-level education, as well as research and enterprise opportunities. It is home to influential thought leaders, pioneering researchers and creative innovators who provide students with the highest quality of teaching and the very latest in modern thinking.

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