Responding to Generative AI Technologies with Research-through-Design: The Ryelands AI Lab as an Exploratory Study
Project Overview
The document presents an exploratory study conducted at Ryelands Primary and Nursery School, focusing on the integration of generative AI technologies within a constructionist curriculum aimed at students aged 7-9. Utilizing an image generation tool based on Stable Diffusion, the study employed a Research-through-Design (RtD) framework to actively engage students in hands-on learning. The findings revealed that this approach not only improved students' technical skills but also sparked critical conversations around ownership, creativity, and the ethical ramifications of AI technologies. Furthermore, the document discusses the broader implications of integrating generative AI in educational contexts, highlighting its potential to enrich learning experiences through innovative applications like AI-driven curricula and creative expression tools. However, it also addresses the challenges educators face, such as ethical considerations and the necessity for adequate teacher training to effectively implement these technologies. Overall, the study advocates for constructionist curricula in AI education as a means to equip students with the competencies needed to navigate and engage with generative AI responsibly and creatively.
Key Applications
AI-Enhanced Curriculum Development for Ethical AI Education
Context: Educational settings ranging from primary education (ages 7-9) to early childhood and middle/high school, targeting both educators and students.
Implementation: Integration of generative AI tools and interactive AI technologies into curricula through workshops, co-design sessions with educators, and iterative development of learning materials. This approach utilizes Research-through-Design methodology, focusing on practical applications of AI in teaching ethical considerations and curricular content.
Outcomes: ['Improved practical and critical competencies in students', 'Enhanced engagement and understanding of AI concepts among young children', 'Improved understanding of AI technologies and ethical considerations among students and teachers']
Challenges: ['Initial novelty effect of generative AI', "Teachers' lack of familiarity with AI tools", 'Resistance to adopting new teaching methodologies', 'Need for ongoing teacher training and adaptation of materials']
Implementation Barriers
Ethical considerations
Concerns regarding the appropriateness of introducing generative AI technologies to young students, including potential exposure to harmful content, bias in AI algorithms, and their impact on student learning.
Proposed Solutions: Implementing safeguards like negative prompts in AI tools, fostering critical discussions about AI’s impact, ensuring informed consent from parents, and conducting rigorous testing and evaluation of AI tools to ensure fairness and inclusivity in educational content.
Technical barrier
Limited access to the necessary technology and resources in some educational institutions.
Proposed Solutions: Providing funding and support for schools to acquire necessary technology and implement AI systems effectively.
Training barrier
Insufficient training for educators on how to effectively use AI tools in their teaching.
Proposed Solutions: Developing comprehensive professional development programs focused on AI integration in education.
Project Team
Jesse Josua Benjamin
Researcher
Joseph Lindley
Researcher
Elizabeth Edwards
Researcher
Elisa Rubegni
Researcher
Tim Korjakow
Researcher
David Grist
Researcher
Rhiannon Sharkey
Researcher
Contact Information
For information about the paper, please contact the authors.
Authors: Jesse Josua Benjamin, Joseph Lindley, Elizabeth Edwards, Elisa Rubegni, Tim Korjakow, David Grist, Rhiannon Sharkey
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