Published Research
A framework for inclusive AI learning design for diverse learners
Abstract As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prominent in children's lives, an increasing number of researchers and practitioners have underscored the importance of integrating AI as learning content in K-12. Despite the recent efforts in developing AI...
Integrating Cybersecurity and Cryptology in Elementary Preservice Education: Influence on Perceptions, Confidence and Intent to Teach
Abstract Cybersecurity educational efforts are urgently needed to introduce young people to the profession and give students and teachers cybersecurity knowledge to protect themselves from increasing cybercrime. In this study, 56 elementary preservice teachers...
The impact of near-peer virtual agents on computer science attitudes and collaborative dialogue
Abstract Virtual learning companions, or pedagogical agents situated as “near peers”, have shown great promise for supporting learning, but little is known about their potential to scaffold other practices, such as collaboration. We report on the development and...
Artificial Intelligence Unplugged: Designing Unplugged Activities for a Conversational AI Summer Camp
Abstract As conversational AI apps such as Siri and Alexa become ubiquitous among children, the CS education community has begun leveraging this popularity as a potential opportunity to attract young learners to AI, CS, and STEM learning. However, teaching...
An engagement-aware predictive model to evaluate problem-solving performance from the study of adult skills’ (PIAAC 2012) process data
Abstract The benefits of incorporating process information in a large-scale assessment with the complex micro-level evidence from the examinees (i.e., process log data) are well documented in the research across large-scale assessments and learning analytics. This...
Automated Feedback for Student Math Responses Based on Multi-Modality and Fine-Tuning
Abstract Open-ended mathematical problems are a commonly used method for assessing students’ abilities by teachers. In previous automated assessments, natural language processing focusing on students’ textual answers has been the primary approach. However,...
A Fair Clustering Approach to Self-Regulated Learning Behaviors in a Virtual Learning Environment
Abstract While virtual learning environments (VLEs) are widely used in K-12 education for classroom instruction and self-study, young students’ success in VLEs highly depends on their self-regulated learning (SRL) skills. Therefore, it is important to provide...
Learner experience and motivational beliefs for a VR Lab in advanced undergraduate biology
Abstract Recently, interest in understanding the prospects of virtual environments, specifically virtual reality laboratories (VR Lab) – those that involve a first-person practica experience via a desktop computer or head-mounted display – in science education has...
Using Ant Colony Optimization to Identify Optimal Sample Allocations in Cluster-Randomized Trials
Abstract When designing cluster-randomized trials (CRTs), one important consideration is determining the proper sample sizes across levels and treatment conditions to cost-efficiently achieve adequate statistical power. This consideration is usually addressed in an...
Automatically Detecting Confusion and Conflict During Collaborative Learning Using Linguistic, Prosodic, and Facial Cues
Abstract During collaborative learning, confusion and conflict emerge naturally. However, persistent confusion or conflict have the potential to generate frustration and significantly impede learners' performance. Early automatic detection of confusion and conflict...