Art museum learning and EI in the age of AI : nurturing human connectivity

Abstract

This paper explores the intricate relationship between art museum learning and the development of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in the context of the rapidly advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in today’s world, there is a growing need to emphasize the human aspects of education and emotional understanding. Stemming from my doctoral study (2014-2020) which explored holistic educational approaches with reference to the national art museum in Malta, this paper extends to the contribution of an art museum learning to the development of emotional intelligence (EI) in times of artificial intelligence (AI). As part of my research, I carried out three community projects with young adult participants (aged 21-30years). I exchanged ideas with the participants about the ways they engage with the national art museum collection in Malta. Throughout the three projects, regardless of their artistic ability and aesthetic background, all participants communicated experiences, emotions and ideas through art. This paper recommends ways in which art museum learning can enhance EI, fostering empathy, social skills, and self-awareness in individuals, thereby preparing them for the emotional challenges of the AI-driven future.