Purdue University’s College of Education paves the way for a shift in learning techniques through the AI and Data Science Research Initiative, focusing on the developing role of AI in P-12 education. As AI capabilities advance, the research addresses personalized learning, assessment methods and educator support.

Professor Bill Watson, director of the Purdue Center for Serious Games and Learning in Virtual Environments and chair of the College of Education’s AI and Data Science Working Group, labels one of the college’s roles as setting the research direction. As AI becomes more accessible, research continues to focus on supporting schools and communities seeking assistance. 

“Every instructor is scrambling to figure AI out,” Watson shares. “We have an opportunity to impact educators because there’s such a need for research-informed guidance in our P-12 schools.” 

Watson says part of the college’s initiative is understanding how teachers worldwide are responding to AI. Then, researchers can foster practical discussions about educators’ options.

Watson’s research emphasizes learning outcomes and mastery rather than the set amount of time spent teaching a topic. Personalized learning — an approach that tailors the educational experience to an individual’s strengths, weaknesses and learning pace — is central to Watson’s research.

He explains that AI has the potential to support learning flexibility, allowing for individualized learning paths. Individualized learning paths could provide more time for students to master a concept instead of creating learning deficiencies that build up as the calendar year progresses. Likewise, students who grasp the material faster could move forward, remaining engaged instead of becoming bored. 

“Outreach to our P-12 schools to help them understand AI better is important,” Watson shares. “We want to help with the adaptation of these technologies in the classroom, and also help educators understand what barriers and concerns exist.”

Watson says a challenging aspect of the field is how quickly it’s developing amid an already expansive technological backdrop. 

“We’re developing this research as we go,” he remarks. “The ground is moving under our feet. The AI scene changes rapidly, and we need to get ahead of it as much as possible.”

The College of Education’s AI and Data Science Research Initiative extends beyond research, including a focus on practical applications and professional development for educators. As part of an effort toward translating research findings into tangible classroom improvements, Purdue hosted the AI summit in Indianapolis and the Purdue AI in P-12 Education Conference in West Lafayette, both of which took place in November of 2024.

“We strive for a visible and attainable place where people can go to learn,” shares Watson. 

AI continues to reshape the work landscape, and education must evolve to prepare students for future careers. Watson says pedagogy can’t stay the same at such a technological tipping point. 

“A shift to the sort of critical thinking, problem-solving and collaborative skills that society will need is crucial,” Watson explains. “We can’t bury our heads in the sand and say we’re going to teach the same skills and knowledge when AI will be better at that.” 

Visit the College of Education’s AI and Data Science Research Initiative website for more information. To explore more resources, visit the college’s AI in Education playlist to hear conference keynote speakers and insight from Purdue researchers.