Can Artificial Intelligence Teach Preservice Teachers to Respond More Effectively to Bullying?

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 72
  In Roundtable Session: Emerging Trends and Tools for Preservice Teacher Preparations

Abstract

Bullying among youth is a pervasive problem affecting approximately 35% of students in schools. Teachers can play a critical role in stopping bullying-related violence, yet traditional pedagogies for training are limited. Aritificial intelligence presented through Virtual Roleplay (VRP) provides a means for pre-service teachers to practice their communication skills without risking the well-being of real children. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of virtual roleplay practice on pre-service teachers’ communication fluency when responding to a potential victim of bullying. Twenty pre-service teachers practiced their skills interacting with VRP and participated in regular roleplay before and after to measure changes in their communication skills. Results showed improvement across almost all communication indicators.

Authors

• Deborah L. Schussler, The Pennsylvania State University

• Jennifer L Frank, The Pennsylvania State University

• Tsan-Kuang Lee, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park

• Michelle Wright, The Pennsylvania State University

• Julia Mahfouz, University of Idaho

• Ko Un Choi, The Pennsylvania State University

• Emily Sturtz, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park