Designing a Teacher Learning Trajectory to Support AI and NLP Integration in Middle School Science

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 3:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Designing Pedagogy and Practice in the Age of AI

Abstract

The paper reports on a three-year professional development initiative with nineteen teachers, using a teacher learning trajectory framework to trace educators’ conceptual and instructional growth as they integrated natural language processing (NLP) tools such as: data preprocessing, keyword extraction, and sentiment analysis into NGSS-aligned science lessons. Beyond reporting teacher knowledge gains and shifts in practice, it proposes a three-level trajectory (Emerging, Developing, Proficient) as a model for designing scalable, equity-focused professional learning around AI integration.

Authors

• Daria Smyslova, North Carolina State University

• Srijita Chakraburty, Indiana University

• Oluwatomisin Obajemu, University of Florida

• Krista D. Glazewski, North Carolina State University

• Cindy E. Hmelo-Silver, Indiana University

• Kristy E. Boyer, University of Florida