A Development of an Instructional Model for Data-based Artificial Intelligence, Science, and Technology Convergence to Strengthen Digital Literacy

Objectives The purposes of this study were to develop instructional model that combines artificial intelligence(AI), science, and technology in middle school through problem-oriented project activities that solve problems using data-based artificial intelligence technology to improve digital literacy and analyzed its effectiveness Methods The initial model was developed after deriving the components and design principles through a review of previous studies. To validate the model, two rounds of expert validation were conducted targeting 5 people. In the field evaluation, a class was conducted applying this model to 25 third-grade middle school students in Seoul. The interpretation of results was derived from pre- and post-tests on students' digital literacy and interview with the students. The results were analyzed using a paired samples t test. Results This study created a class model for the convergence of AI, science, and technology to enhance digital literacy. The model was based on the data-driven Exploratory Scientific Data Analysis Inquiry Model (ESDA) and the TMSI(Tinkering, Making, Sharing, Improving) model. The class model comprises four stages: ‘Data mining,’ ‘Problem Defining,’ ‘Making with AI,’ and ‘Sharing & Improving.’ Additionally, 12 design principles and 37 detailed guidelines supporting each stage of the final AI·science·technology convergence class model were presented. Classes implementing this model demonstrated an overall positive impact on enhancing learners' digital literacy. Conclusions This study holds significance as it validated the effectiveness of improving students' digital literacy by implementing the data-based AI, science, and technology convergence class model at middle school sites. The model and design principles were developed through expert review, and the positive outcomes contribute to the understanding of effective educational strategies in this context.