Exploring the Applications of Generative AI in High School STEM Education

TL;DR

This study investigates how generative AI tools like ChatGPT influence high school physics education, finding they enhance student engagement and have a positive effect on performance.

Contribution

It provides experimental evidence on the impact of generative AI in high school STEM education, focusing on physics, which is less explored in prior research.

Findings

Increased student engagement with physics topics.

Positive impact on student performance.

Generative AI tools are beneficial in educational settings.

Abstract

In recent years, ChatGPT \cite{openai_2023_gpt4} along with Microsoft Copilot have become subjects of great discourse, particularly in the field of education. Prior research has hypothesized on potential impacts these tools could have on student learning and performance. These have primarily relied on trends from prior applications of technology in education and an understanding of the limitations and strengths of Generative AI in other applications. This study utilizes an experimental approach to analyze the impacts of Generative AI on high school STEM education (physics in particular). In accordance with most findings, generative AI does have some positive impact on student performance. However, our findings have shown that the most significant impact is an increase in student engagement with the subject.