ESERA SIGs

SIG 10: AI in Science Education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in our society, with generative AI (GenAI) tools leading the charge by enabling the creation of entirely new content. As AI continues to develop and enter various sectors, it is already a cornerstone of scientific research and is making significant inroads into education, particularly through private initiatives. Given this landscape, the science education research community cannot afford to remain passive observers. Instead, it is imperative that we take an active role in shaping the future of science education by leveraging insights from educational research. To this end, the formation of a Special Interest Group (SIG) within ESERA, aptly named “AI in Science Education,” offers a unique platform for science education researchers to collaborate, explore critical issues, and drive AI-related science education research forward internationally.

The SIG AI in Science Education aims to bring together researchers passionate about science education and AI, fostering a critical examination of AI integration and creating a forum for dynamic discussions and groundbreaking research. Key topics under the spotlight include: How can AI tools enhance teaching and learning processes? What level of AI literacy is essential for responsible usage? How can we design inclusive teaching environments that effectively leverage AI for better learning outcomes? To what extent can AI support personalized learning in science education across schools and universities? How can AI enhance qualitative and quantitative research methods? How should we address ethical implications in science education research, such as bias, data protection, or policy considerations? How can we adapt existing learning theories to the GenAI era, or are entirely new theories required? How can we equip students and educators with the skills to use AI responsibly?

The SIG members’ concrete goals should include developing actionable frameworks and recommendations to guide the ESERA community and science educators across Europe and beyond. One of the first initiatives could be to review and potentially refine the European Reference Framework for Digital Competences (DigiCompEdu) in the context of AI and its associated competencies. Additionally, strategies need to be developed to manage the growing challenges of handling large datasets, safeguarding personal rights, and mitigating the risks of AI bias in data interpretation.

The SIG can make significant contributions to educational practices within ESERA. Expert meetings and seminars will play a crucial role in disseminating cutting-edge research. At the same time, workshops organized by the SIG will offer opportunities for ESERA members less familiar with AI to gain valuable insights and skills. All researchers interested in AI can join the SIG as science education experts. To kickstart this exciting journey, all interested ESERA members should be invited to a meeting in ESERA 2025, where the necessity of the SIG can be discussed, ideas can be exchanged, and specific goals can be outlined. This meeting will begin a vibrant and impactful collaboration that will shape the future of science education in the age of AI.

Coordinators
Lukas Mientus, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany

Yael Feldman-Maggor, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden