Background: The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is rapidly transforming student-teacher interactions, particularly during the initial stages of academic courses. Traditional icebreaking activities, designed to ease anxiety and build community, are increasingly enhanced by AI-driven tools that provide real-time feedback, personalized engagement, and adaptive communication. This review aims to examine current research and practices on the role of AI in supporting icebreaking activities and communication in academic settings, identifying key opportunities, challenges, and considerations for effective integration.
Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted, focusing on studies published up to December 2024. Multiple databases-Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, PubMed, and Google Scholar-were searched using keywords such as “artificial intelligence,” “icebreaking,” “teacher-student communication,” and “personalized learning.” Studies addressing AI in educational icebreakers or communication were included; those lacking an educational context or peer review were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened and synthesized the literature by key themes.
Results: AI-powered icebreakers enhance classroom engagement by creating welcoming, interactive environments that personalize activities and provide real-time feedback. These tools help teachers efficiently design and adapt icebreakers, monitor participation, and identify disengaged students for timely support. Additionally, AI automates routine tasks, freeing educators to focus on deeper teaching and relationship-building. However, challenges include risks of superficial engagement, over-reliance on technology, and diminished authentic human connection. The effectiveness of AI-driven icebreakers depends on their thoughtful integration alongside traditional interpersonal approaches.
Conclusion: AI-driven icebreakers hold significant promise for fostering inclusive, engaging, and supportive academic environments. To maximize their benefits, educators should thoughtfully integrate AI tools as complements-not replacements-for human interaction, ensuring that technology enhances rather than diminishes the core values of education.