Supporting Self-Project-Based Learning Through AI

Current Project 

​River Pease, Jin Yu, Sriram Manikandan, HyunJoo Oh 

Overview
This project explores how AI can support self-directed, project-based learning by helping students design, prototype, and reflect on their own creative projects. By combining tangible coding tools with AI-powered scaffolding, we aim to lower barriers for beginners while enabling deeper exploration for advanced learners.

​Why It Matters
  • Fosters Independence: Empowers students to take ownership of their learning by guiding them through idea generation, prototyping, and iteration.
  • Bridges AI & Making: Demonstrates how AI can act as a collaborator, not just a tool, in STEM education.
  • Supports Diverse Learners: Provides adaptive scaffolding so both novices and experienced makers can engage meaningfully.
  • Expands STEM Engagement: Encourages creativity, critical thinking, and persistence in open-ended projects.
 
How It Works (Concept)
Current Directions 
  • Designing AI-powered prompts that encourage exploration, not just answers.
  • Integrating with tangible coding systems to make AI guidance visible and hands-on.
  • Studying how students balance agency vs. scaffolding when co-creating with AI.
Who Is It For?
  • ​Middle school students (ages 12–14)
  • Teachers introducing physical computing
  • Anyone interested in tangible, accessible coding tools