Metaverse in Education for AI-Enhanced Lifelong Learning and SDG Advancement in the Context of an Aging Society: A Systematic Review

บทคัดย่อ

The rapid advancement of immersive technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has reshaped digital education and introduced new possibilities for lifelong learning in aging societies. This study presents a systematic review of research published between 2020 and 2026 examining the integration of AI within Metaverse-based educational environments. Guided by the PRISMA framework, 18 peer-reviewed studies were identified and synthesized to analyze emerging research trends, pedagogical applications, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Findings indicate a shift from technological infrastructure integration toward pedagogically focused applications, including intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive learning models, generative AI, and immersive simulations. AI enhances personalized learning pathways, real-time feedback, and experiential skill development within interactive virtual environments, supporting flexibility, self-directed learning, and continuous reskilling. The review further demonstrates strong alignment with SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG10 (Reduced Inequalities), highlighting the structural role of AI-enhanced Metaverse systems in promoting inclusive and sustainable educational ecosystems. Within the context of an aging society, immersive AI-driven environments show potential to mitigate mobility constraints, reduce social isolation, and foster cognitive engagement among older adults. AI-integrated Metaverse education represents an emerging paradigm capable of supporting inclusive, adaptive, and sustainable lifelong learning infrastructures in response to demographic transformation and global sustainability agendas.