Date
Publisher
arXiv
This work-in-progress paper presents SPARC (Systematic Problem Solving and
Algorithmic Reasoning for Children), a gamified learning platform designed to
enhance engagement and knowledge retention in K-12 STEM education. Traditional
approaches often struggle to motivate students or facilitate deep
understanding, especially for complex scientific concepts. SPARC addresses
these challenges by integrating interactive, narrative-driven gameplay with an
artificial intelligence peer agent built on large language models. Rather than
simply providing answers, the agent engages students in dialogue and inquiry,
prompting them to explain concepts and solve problems collaboratively. The
platform's design is grounded in educational theory and closely aligned with
state learning standards. Initial classroom pilots utilized a multi-method
assessment framework combining pre- and post-tests, in-game analytics, and
qualitative feedback from students and teachers. Preliminary findings indicate
that SPARC significantly increases student engagement, with most participants
reporting greater interest in STEM subjects and moderate gains in conceptual
understanding observed in post-test results. Ongoing development focuses on
refining the AI agent, expanding curriculum integration, and improving
accessibility. These early results demonstrate the potential of combining
AI-driven peer support with game-based learning to create inclusive, effective,
and engaging educational experiences for K-12 learners.
Study at a glance
- Question: Can an AI peer agent in a learning game improve K-12 student engagement and STEM understanding?
- Setting and data: K-12 classrooms with students and teachers.
- Method: Classroom pilots combining pre- and post-tests, in-game analytics, and qualitative feedback from students and teachers.
Why it matters
Traditional approaches in K-12 STEM education often struggle to motivate students or facilitate deep understanding, especially for complex scientific concepts.
Key findings
- In initial K-12 STEM classroom pilots, a game-based platform with an AI peer was linked to significantly increased student engagement.
- Most participating students reported greater interest in STEM subjects after using the platform.
- Students showed moderate gains in conceptual understanding on post-tests after learning with the platform.
Summary drafted with AI from the paper’s abstract and may contain errors. See the full paper for details.
What is the application?
Who is the user?
Why use AI?
Study design
