Give Us the Hot Take: Exploring the Role of Middle Grades Student’s Initial Perceptions of AI to Develop AI Literacy

• In Event: Generative AI Tools to Support Literacy

Abstract

This study focused on perceptions of 4th-7th grade students during a STEAM camp themed around AI. Using a qualitative approach, we analyzed student data from sessions to investigate how students’ initial views on AI influence their AI literacy development. Our findings indicate that AI experiences and instruction helped students articulate a more nuanced understanding of AI and underscores the need to attune to students’ initial perceptions before teaching AI literacy skills.

Authors

• Melanie Blanton, The Citadel

• Farhath Zareen, The Citadel

• Jennifer Albert, The Citadel