Session III: 12:50 - 1:50 pm - THE 17TH ANNUAL WPU EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE

Concurrent Session III: 12:50 PM – 1:50 PM, ET (60 minutes)

Workshop 7: AI-Supported Inquiry in Science Classrooms: Advancing Accessible and Authentic Learning
By Heejung An, William Paterson University of New Jersey

This interactive session provides participants with a balanced combination of conceptual understanding and hands-on experience using generative AI to support inquiry-based science instruction aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The session begins with a brief overview of generative AI, followed by practical activities demonstrating how AI tools can enhance two key scientific practices: NGSS Practice 1: Asking Questions and NGSS Practice 4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data. Participants will also explore how generative AI can increase accessibility by providing access to real-world data and creating more authentic, engaging learning experiences for all students. Throughout the session, emphasis will also be placed on the responsible and ethical use of AI, including evaluating AI-generated information, recognizing its limitations, and promoting academic integrity in science learning.

Target Audience: Educators serving students in Grades 5-12

Workshop 8: School Libraries as Equitable Gateways to Responsible AI Literacy
By Patricia Dennis, William Paterson University of New Jersey

Students need equitable opportunities to develop critical and responsible AI literacy, yet access remains uneven. This proposed study uses a longitudinal Community-Based Participatory Action Research approach to examine how school libraries and School Library Media Specialists can support that goal. Educators, students, and community partners will co-design and evaluate library-based AI-literacy learning across diverse contexts through collaborative cycles of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The intended outcome is practical guidance for positioning school libraries as equitable gateways where all students can question, understand, and responsibly participate in an AI-shaped world.

Target Audience: School Library Media Specialist, Technology Coordinators, Educators, Administrators