Exploring Middle School Students' Perceptions of AI and Generative AI tools (Poster 16)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 1:30 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Advanced Technologies for Learning Poster Session 2

Abstract

This study explored gender differences in students' perceptions of AI tools in classrooms using AI-driven and human-centered analysis approaches. The participants included 132 middle school students from a suburban Midwestern U.S. school (50 females, 74 males, 8 non-binary). Data were collected via an open-ended survey and analyzed through AI-driven sentiment analysis and thematic analysis. Key findings showed an overall positive view of AI, with 90 positive, 31 negative, and 11 neutral responses. Gender-based differences revealed females had more cautious perspectives, males had a stronger positive inclination, and non-binary students showed an equal distribution of sentiments. Emerging themes included optimism about AI for personalized learning, concerns about distractions, and a preference for balancing digital and traditional learning methods.

Authors

• Keunjae Kim, Oklahoma State University

• Kyungbin Kwon, Indiana University