Exploring Middle School Students' Perceptions of Advanced Science and Technology and Their Rationales: Focusing on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

Objectives This study explores how middle school students perceive advanced science and technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Methods To achieve this objective, semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted with six first-year middle school students from the Seoul metropolitan area, and the data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Results First, students generally held positive perceptions of advancements in science and technology. Second, they acquired information about AI and robotics through various sources, including formal school education, informal education, private tutoring, and everyday experiences. However, they encountered difficulties in articulating precise definitions and concepts of AI and robotics, often exhibiting misconceptions. AI was frequently experienced through interactive platforms such as ChatGPT, whereas robots were encountered less frequently and primarily in indirect settings, leading to a lower familiarity with robots compared to AI. Third, students recognized both the diverse impacts and potential risks associated with AI and robotics. The most frequently mentioned concern was the possibility of AI and robots posing a physical threat to humans, which was significantly influenced by media exposure. Fourth, students who perceived risks as uncontrollable exhibited higher levels of fear and perceived severity of potential harm. Lastly, when discussing risk mitigation strategies, students tended to overlook a comprehensive evaluation of multiple perspectives and showed a particular lack of awareness regarding the role of government regulation. Conclusions Based on the findings of this study, it is essential to implement a structured and systematic education on AI and robotics in science education that reflects the characteristics of students. Additionally, efforts should be made within the curriculum to enhance students’ awareness of AI and robotics, foster a deeper understanding of associated risks, and provide education aimed at developing their competencies in risk response.