Business Meeting Problem-Based and Project-Based Learning SIG

Please join us for food and drinks and the keynote address

Keynote: "Empowering Project-Based Learning with AI to Foster Knowledge-in-Use" by Peng He (Washington State University) and Joseph Krajcik (Michigan State University).

Abstract: Project-Based Learning (PjBL) offers rich opportunities for students to engage in authentic, complex sense-making experience. PjBL and problem-based learning (PBL) share similar underlying theoretical roots and also have some common features. This session will highlight those similarities and differences. Although PjBL holds much promise in supporting student learning and motivation, it also presents challenges in providing timely, personalized feedback that supports students' use of knowledge in meaningful contexts. In this presentation, we will share the design and implementation of an AI-empowered PBL system that integrates real-time assessment and feedback to support students' knowledge-in-use. This AI-empowered PjBL system automatically scores student work and generates actionable feedback during the learning process. By providing immediate insights into student progress, the system supports students to iteratively improve their previous work and teachers in making actionable instructional decisions. We will discuss design principles, technical integration strategies, and implications for equitable learning opportunities. Although we draw our examples from K-12 science education, the lessons and principles apply across fields. The session aims to spark conversation on how AI can meaningfully empower PBL environments, not as a replacement for teachers, but as a partner in advancing equitable science learning.

Below we provide an overview of the keynote speakers of past business meetings at AERA.