NSF grant to BC supports human-centered AI education

According to co-principal investigator, Assistant Professor of Engineering and Sabet Family Dean’s Faculty Fellow Avneet Hira, the project will be executed in three phases: development of modular instructional materials suitable for integration into both introductory and advanced undergraduate engineering courses; implementation of these materials in courses at BC; and the use of design-based research methods to iteratively study and refine the curriculum.

“The research will examine how students understand and apply HCAD concepts, how their perceptions of engineering and AI evolve, and how different elements of the curriculum influence engagement,” she said.  “Mixed-methods data collection will include surveys, interviews, classroom observations, and analysis of student work, and the findings will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on engineering education, AI instruction, and pedagogical design for integrated STEM learning.”

Hira explained that project outcomes will include publicly available curricular materials, empirical evidence on how students engaged with human-centered design approaches in technical contexts such as when building AI-based algorithmic systems, and guidance for adapting the HCAD framework to other institutions with varying missions, sizes, and student populations.

“My research group and collaborators in engineering and STEM education are excited to provide mentored experience in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, and dissemination to support Professor Ranger’s advancement in engineering education research,” said Hira, who also has a courtesy appointment in the Lynch School Department of Teaching, Curriculum, and Society.  “I’m also looking forward to learning about Human-Centered AI from Bryan and his group.  Through these efforts, the project aims to improve the quality and reach of AI education and help shape a generation of engineers who are equipped to design technologies that responsibly serve society.”

Ranger underscored that AI is rapidly transforming the world, and is changing how people learn, work, and connect.

“From health care and transportation to education and public services, AI systems are shaping how people make decisions and influencing everyday experiences,” he said. “As these technologies become more integrated into daily life, it’s essential that engineers are prepared not only to build them, but also to understand and anticipate their broader societal impacts.”