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SLC CATALYST

Learning About Causal Systems in Complex Domains National Science Foundation, subgrant with Auburn UniversityCausal learning is a topic of interest and importance to K-16 education and learning research in several scientific and technical disciplines. This project has two goals: to develop a prospective synthesis of the state of research on complex causal learning across disciplines, and to identify gaps in the knowledge base that past research has built up. This effort draws from multiple disciplines, including cognitive science, computer science,…

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SimSnap: Orchestrating Collaborative Learning in Biology through Reconfigurable Simulations

SimSnap allows students to "snap" iPads together while they work on simulations in science. The main goal of this project is to develop an innovative platform to integrate learning across individual, group and whole class levels with innovative uses of technology. Students will solve socio-scientific problems in biology, as they seamlessly move between their own learning and that of their peers.Key aspects of this project are:Students will be able to investigate the biology of plants in an authentic simulation focused around community garden…

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Scaffolding Science Learning and Teaching in Middle School Classrooms through Automated Wise Crowd Analysis of Students’ Writing 

Constructing evidence-based written explanations is key aspect of learning science.  This project addresses the need to support students’ written explanations in science through a novel, automated technology to provide students and teachers with real-time feedback about students’ written explanations. The new technology will integrate the tool PyrEval, developed by Dr. Rebecca Passonneau. It will support students’ reasoning and explanations using two complementary mechanisms: automated assessment and feedback of students’ science explanations using a wise crowd model PyrEval, and feedback to…

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NSF AI Institute for Student-AI Teaming

This institute, housed at the University of Colorado at Boulder, will lead the development of the new science of students-AI teaming. The aim is develop human-AI collaboration models and frameworks for creating the next generation  collaborative learning environments composed of diverse student-AI teams. The institute will contribute to the development of theories, AI technology an deter application of student-AI teaming technologies in middle and high schools. Working with the research teams in the institute, Puntambekar's research group will focus on…

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Bio-Sphere – Fostering Deep Learning of Complex Biology

Fostering Deep Learning of Complex Biology for Building Our Next Generation’s Scientists - Funded by The National Science Foundation’s DRK-12 Program. Goal: Help middle school students, particularly in rural and underserved areas, develop deep scientific knowledge and knowledge of the practices and routines of science. Today’s citizens face profound questions in science: Is it a good idea to submit one’s DNA for genetic testing to screen for potential future diseases? Which forms of clean energy are most efficient and have…

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Model Comparisons – Science Inquiry Using Physical and Virtual Experiments

Systematic Investigation of Issues and Conditions for Learning - Funded by the National Science Foundation’s Education Core Research Program. Both physical labs and virtual labs are often used in science teaching, and each have their advantages and disadvantages. With each providing different affordances for learning, it is often feasible to combine the two in a multitude of ways. This project will conduct a series of studies to: Uncover the differential benefits of physical versus virtual labs, for learners with a…

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SAVI – Digital STEM Content Innovation

Dynamic Digital Text: An Innovation in STEM Education A radical rethinking of content, organization, and interaction of digital STEM content for school and college level education. Spell out acronym here.  - Funded by The National Science Foundations DRK-12 Program. This project aims to design the next generation of digital STEM content for school and college level education— which we call a dynamic digital text— by radically rethinking content, organization, and interaction. To realize this vision, this project aims to: Develop…

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CoMPASS – Concept Mapping and Design Challenges

The Concept Mapped Project-based Activity Scaffolding System (CoMPASS) project integrates two modes of learning science: digital linked text in a hypertext system, CoMPASS, and accompanying design challenges. CoMPASS includes the projects: NGLC, IES, CAREER, NSDL, and IERI. Several CoMPASS units have been developed covering a range of topics in mechanics and enable students to learn about key concepts such as work, energy, force, acceleration, mechanical advantage etc. The principle guiding the design of CoMPASS materials is to enable students to…

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