Design-Based Learning and Constructionist Learning Principles to Promote Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Awareness in K-12, a Pilot Study

Abstract

There is a strong interest in engaging young learners in understanding and using Artificial Intelligence (AI) by providing opportunities to develop skills and competencies both from a technical and ethical perspective. However, how we should teach AI is still to be discussed in-depth. There are relatively few studies that investigate the methodology of learning programmes for K-12 students. The literature has highlighted how Design-Based Learning (DBL) could successfully lead learners to develop their knowledge of AI by engaging in an iterative, creative, and collaborative process underpinned by a constructionist pedagogy that fosters understanding and building connections with the ‘real-world’. In this paper, we describe the implementation of a learning programme on AI, based on DBL and constructionism, co-designed with primary school teachers, and piloted with a group of students (10-12 years of age) in Ireland. Students engaged in a series of hands-on activities and then experienced the whole design process of AI working in groups. They conducted some research on health and well-being to identify potential issues they could tackle using AI. Then, they ideated and created a prototype of their solution using Scratch and Machine Learning for Kids. In this paper, we discuss reflections from the teacher and insights on participants’ learning experiences. The study illustrates how through DBL it was possible to give students the agency, as creators, to shape technologies for good, and how a programme based on DBL and constructionist learning principles created a felicitous environment to learn and reflect on AI while developing 21st-century skills.



Author Information
Enrica Amplo, Dublin City University, Ireland
Deirdre Butler, Dublin City University, Ireland

Paper Information
Conference: IICE2023
Stream: Learning Experiences

This paper is part of the IICE2023 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Amplo E., & Butler D. (2023) Design-Based Learning and Constructionist Learning Principles to Promote Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Awareness in K-12, a Pilot Study ISSN: 2189-1036 – The IAFOR International Conference on Education – Hawaii 2023 Official Conference Proceedings https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-1036.2023.66
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-1036.2023.66


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Posted by James Alexander Gordon