Can AI level the playing field? Evidence from the classroom

Dr Zhenyang (Leo) Bao, 2026

Purpose

Gender inequality persists in many learning and professional environments, particularly male-dominated fields. Leo Bao set out to test whether artificial intelligence (AI) could do more than boost productivity – whether it could genuinely help close this gap.

Practice

Using real-world evidence, the team compared students taught by AI trainers with those taught by human teachers, assessing both learning outcomes and gender equality.

Output

Students taught by AI performed better overall, with especially strong benefits for girls. AI trainers were gender-neutral in their interactions, while human teachers showed gender-biased behaviours that contributed to unequal outcomes.

Outcome and impact

The findings help researchers, policymakers and institutions better understand how emerging technology can be used to promote gender equality and social inclusion – informing responsible AI development and policy design that serves fairness, not just efficiency.