Pre-service Teachers’ Knowledge and Beliefs towards Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Integration in K-8 Classrooms

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 2:15 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Strengthening Teacher Capacity for Computer Science Integration

Abstract

Teacher education has not yet widely integrated computer science (CS) and artificial intelligence (AI) into curricula. To learn more about pre-service teachers’ knowledge, beliefs, and interest in CS and AI, we conducted an exploratory sequential mixed methods study informed by technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK; Mishra & Koehler, 2007) and Intelligent-TPACK (Celik, 2023). Data included survey (n=86) and focus group responses (n=17). Survey data revealed high self-ratings of knowledge, but focus groups revealed a lack of knowledge about CS as a domain, and little awareness about AI instructional tools. Self-efficacy for CS and AI integration was moderate; however, focus groups revealed little exposure to CS curriculum standards and integration strategies. Participants expressed a strong interest in further training.

Authors

• Joanna K. Garner, Old Dominion University

• Grace K Friedenreich, Old Dominion University

• Melani A. Loney, Old Dominion University

• Lisa Steffian, Old Dominion University

• Jennifer Jill Kidd, Old Dominion University

• Sarah Hosni, Old Dominion University

• William McConnell, Virginia Wesleyan University