Abstract:

This talk explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing next generation science education, particularly through assessment and instructional support aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Xiaoming Zhai presents how AI technologies—including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and generative AI—can enhance the assessment of complex, three-dimensional student learning outcomes such as modeling, argumentation, and scientific explanation. By leveraging tools like fine-tuned language models and computer vision networks, the talk demonstrates the potential for scalable, accurate, and equitable automatic scoring of student work, both written and drawn. Zhai also introduces human-centered dashboards and automatically generated assessment reports (AutoRs) to support teachers’ instructional decisions, highlighting the importance of pedagogical content knowledge (PCK)-based scaffolding. Empirical findings from large-scale implementations and meta-analyses are shared to validate the accuracy and fairness of AI-based assessment. Finally, the talk critically addresses misconceptions around AI bias—termed “pseudo AI bias”—and discusses ethical implications, teacher agency, and the evolving roles of educators in the era of generative AI. The presentation concludes with a call for thoughtful integration of AI to support personalized, equitable, and scientifically rigorous learning in K-12 classrooms.

Bio:

Xiaoming Zhai is Associate Professor of Science Education and AI, and courtesy professor in Computer Science and Statistics at the University of Georgia and Director of both the AI4STEM Education Center and the  National GENIUS Center. His research pioneers the use of AI and machine learning to transform STEM assessment and instruction, supported by major grants from NSF, IES, NIH, and NAEd/Spencer. Zhai has published extensively in top-tier journals, including Journal of Research in Science Teaching and Computers & Education, and serves on multiple editorial boards. As a former Humboldt Fellow and Visiting Professor in Germany, he has collaborated with scholars across many countries. He chaired the 2022 and 2025 AI in STEM international conferences and leads NARST’s RAISE group. His work has earned prestigious honors, including the AERA TACTL Early Career Award, Humboldt Fellowship, and NAEd/Spencer Award. Dr. Zhai is a leading voice in shaping the future of AI in education. His recent edited book Uses of AI in STEM Education is a milestone work reflecting the cutting-edge development of the field.