Mapping the Horizon: A Scoping Review of Generative AI in Collaborative Learning

The emergence of Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping educational practices, particularly in collaborative learning environments. Despite its growing adoption, there remains a limited understanding of its thematic focus, learning outcomes and challenges. This scoping review, conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, synthesizes findings from 30 peer-reviewed studies published between 2023 to 2025, examining the integration of GenAI in collaborative learning contexts. Three key themes emerged, GenAI tools (e.g., chatbots), collaborative aspects (e.g., feedback, self-regulated learning), and outcomes. Chatbots were frequently linked to enhancements in feedback and self-regulated learning, which in turn contributed to improved cognitive and behavioral outcomes. Among learning outcomes, cognitive gains were most prominently reported, followed by affective and behavioral benefits. Key challenges identified include technical limitations, pedagogical misalignments, and ethical concerns. Notable opportunities for future work involve longitudinal investigations of student-AI interactions, the development of AI literacy frameworks, and teacher professional development aimed at aligning GenAI use with pedagogical goals. This review advances the current understanding of GenAI in collaborative learning and offers direction for future research and practice in this rapidly evolving field.