Uses of Artificial Intelligence in Stem Education

In the age of rapid technological advancements, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and large language models (LLMs) in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping pedagogical approaches and assessment methodologies. Uses of AI in STEM Education, comprising 25 chapters, delves deep into the multifaceted realm of AI-driven STEM education. It begins by exploring the challenges and opportunities of AI-based STEM education, emphasizing the intricate balance between human tasks and technological tools. As the chapters unfold, readers learn about innovative AI applications, from automated scoring systems in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to intelligent tutors and adaptive learning. The book also touches upon the nuances of AI in supporting diverse learners, including students with learning disabilities, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI’s growing influence in educational settings. It showcases the transformative potential of AI in reshaping STEM education, emphasizing the need for adaptive pedagogical strategies that cater to diverse learning needs in an AI-centric world. The chapters further delve into the practical applications of AI, from scoring teacher observations and analyzing classroom videos using neural networks to the broader implications of AI for STEM assessment practices. Concluding with reflections on the new paradigm of AI-based STEM education, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, researchers, and policymakers, offering insights into the future of STEM education in an AI-driven world.

Xiaoming Zhai, Associate Professor of Science Education and AI Director of AI4STEM Education Center, University of Georgia, Joseph Krajcik, University Distinguish Professor, Michigan State University

Xiaoming Zhai is an Associate Professor in Science Education & Artificial Intelligence, serving as Director of the AI4STEM Education Center at the University of Georgia. He is interested in applying cutting-edge technologies such as AI to advance science teaching and learning, particularly assessment practices. He is lead investigator on federal-funded projects and his research has been published in top-tier journals. He has collaborated widely with researchers from the USA, Canada, Germany, Norway, China, Ghana, and India, and serves as a global leader in his area of research. Dr. Zhai chaired the NSF-funded 2022 International Conference for AI-based Assessment in STEM and serves as Founding Chair of the National Association of Research in Science Teaching’s RAISE (Research in AI-involved Science Education) group.

Joseph Krajcik currently serves as Director of the CREATE for STEM Institute at Michigan State University. CREATE for STEM (Collaborative Research for Education, Assessment and Teaching Environments for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is a joint institute between the Colleges of Natural Science and Education that seeks to improve the teaching and learning of science and mathematics from kindergarten to college through innovation and research. During his career, Professor Krajcik has focused on working with science teachers to reform science teaching practices to promote students’ engagement in and learning of science through the design, development, and testing of project-based science learning environments.