Science Literacy: Generative AI as Enabler of Coherence in the Teaching, Learning, and Assessment of Scientific Knowledge and Reasoning

Abstract

This chapter examines the potential of generative AI in enhancing science literacy across the K-16+ grade span, including its benefits as well as the conceptual and practical challenges that doing so presents. It begins with a discussion of what defines science literacy in the era of AI, including how AI has changed science and the demand for future citizens to be scientifically literate when AI is applied in their careers and lives. The chapter further discusses why science literacy presents such a challenge in K-16+ educational settings. It then develops an argument for the type of architecture needed for AI to assist in solving the problem by bringing coherence to the teaching, learning, and assessment of science knowledge and reasoning. Components of this architecture are illustrated with respect to the AI tools and capabilities needed for design and implementation. The chapter concludes with a consideration of what has been learned regarding both science literacy and AI, as well as what remains to be learned, including the research and development (R&D) needed, and the generalizability of this science literacy case to other disciplinary learning and knowledge domains.