Transforming Primary Science Education: Unlocking the Power of Generative AI to Enhance Pupils' Grasp of Scientific Concepts
Keywords:
AI; science learning; scientific concepts; learning environmentsAbstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted the integration of technology into education and thus into teaching methods. This research explored the role of generative AI in enhancing the understanding of scientific concepts among primary school pupils. Qualitative research methodology was employed through semi-structured interviews with 43 primary science teachers from Saudi Arabia who regularly use AI applications in teaching, and data were analyzed using grounded theory. The findings indicated that generative AI supports pupils' personalized learning by contributing to the development of creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, activity-based constructive learning, and thus the understanding of scientific concepts. The findings also indicated that generative AI encourages the adoption of more pupil-centered and inquiry-based teaching approaches. Based on the findings of the study, the researchers underlined that there should be an increased emphasis on the use of AI in education through specialized training for teachers on implementation frameworks and AI integration into lessons. The findings emphasized the need for improved collaboration among teachers within and between schools. A professional exchange network could enable teachers to present experiences and adopt new instructional approaches to improve the learning experience of pupils. The authors recommend future research that includes pupils' perspectives and investigates the long-term effects of integrating AI into the teaching process.
https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.24.5.16
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