Evaluating the AI-Lab Intervention: Impact on Student Perception and Use of Generative AI in Early Undergraduate Computer Science Courses
Project Overview
The document examines the integration of Generative AI (GenAI) in computer science education, particularly through the AI-Lab intervention at Purdue University. It highlights how structured scaffolding enhances students' understanding and application of GenAI tools while maintaining essential skill development. The findings reveal that although the frequency of GenAI usage among students remains stable, there is a noticeable increase in their comfort and willingness to use these tools, indicating a more mindful and intentional approach to learning. The research emphasizes the necessity of guided exploration and ethical considerations when incorporating AI into educational practices, suggesting that a thoughtful framework can improve educational outcomes and prepare students for future challenges in tech-driven environments.
Key Applications
AI-Lab intervention for integrating GenAI tools
Context: Undergraduate computer science and engineering courses at Purdue University, targeting second-year computer science and first-year engineering students.
Implementation: Implemented over three semesters with a mixed-methods approach, including pre- and post-intervention surveys and qualitative focus group discussions.
Outcomes: Increased student comfort and openness to GenAI tools, improved prompting skills, and enhanced awareness of GenAI's limitations.
Challenges: Concerns about overreliance on GenAI, maintaining academic integrity, and navigating unclear academic policies regarding AI usage.
Implementation Barriers
Ethical concerns
Students expressed anxiety about using GenAI due to potential academic integrity issues and concerns about dependence on AI for learning.
Proposed Solutions: Encouraging students to use GenAI as a support tool rather than a replacement for their own thinking, fostering critical evaluation of AI outputs.
Project Team
Ethan Dickey
Researcher
Andres Bejarano
Researcher
Rhianna Kuperus
Researcher
Bárbara Fagundes
Researcher
Contact Information
For information about the paper, please contact the authors.
Authors: Ethan Dickey, Andres Bejarano, Rhianna Kuperus, Bárbara Fagundes
Source Publication: View Original PaperLink opens in a new window
Project Contact: Dr. Jianhua Yang
LLM Model Version: gpt-4o-mini-2024-07-18
Analysis Provider: Openai