AI and social learning: A study of preservice teacher perceptions

• In Event: AER Roundtable Session Friday 1:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Social Emotional Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

As AI is transforming education, social learning related to AI is still under-explored. This work addresses this critical gap by investigating preservice teachers’ (PTs’) perceptions of AI in education, especially connected to social learning. With a robust sample of 197 PTs, this research combines Likert-scale questionnaire data, open-ended responses, and path analysis to explore how PTs conceptualize appropriate and inappropriate uses of AI, especially connected to social learning. The results demonstrate a dual narrative: PTs show enthusiasm for the power of AI while also expressing ethical concerns. Notably, the quantitative results showing how demographic and contextual variables connect to PTs’ perceptions on AI use for social learning highlight the need for inclusive approaches in AI integration.

Authors

• Qing Li, Towson University

• Michael Colin Levi, Towson University

• Emily Bailey, Towson University

• Ruddhi Wadadekar, Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute