Developing Artificial Intelligence Literacy Among Undergraduate Engineering and Technology Students Through Case-Based Instruction

NSF Award Search · 04002526DB NSF STEM Education · $430,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project aims to serve the national interest by improving undergraduate education to better prepare future engineering and computing professionals to use and develop artificial intelligence (AI). The increasing integration of AI-enabled technologies across domains creates workforce opportunities for students as well as providing mechanisms for improving human well-being. The project's significance lies in its innovative use of situated case studies to help students understand AI complexity, differing stakeholder requirements, and to develop critical reasoning about AI applications. Through early exposure in first-year courses, the project aims to develop transferable mindsets and skills that students can apply throughout their careers, advancing their understanding of how to prepare a workforce capable of AI innovation and supporting the nation’s economic well-being. The project goals include developing and implementing six case studies that focus on familiar AI applications such as career preparedness, campus sustainability, autonomous vehicles, and mental health systems using a Situated AI Literacy framework. The scope encompasses implementation across first-year engineering and computing courses at Youngstown State University and George Mason University, serving over 500 students during the project period, with additional dissemination through faculty development workshops reaching ten external institutions. The methodology employs role-play case study discussions

Key facts

NSF award ID
2439460
Awardee
George Mason University (VA)
SAM.gov UEI
EADLFP7Z72E5
PI
Aditya Johri
Primary program
04002526DB NSF STEM Education
All programs
GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT, AI Education/Workforce Develop, Improv Undergrad STEM Ed(IUSE), UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Estimated total
$430,000
Funds obligated
$430,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 09/30/2028