AI in Research: A University Project
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AI in Research: A University Project

College/UniversityOther3 days
This university project explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on research methodologies, focusing on ethical considerations, the validity of research findings, and the changing roles of researchers. Students will investigate AI applications in diverse research fields, participate in ethical debates, and critically analyze the influence of AI on research integrity. Through hands-on workshops and interviews with researchers, they will develop practical skills in utilizing AI tools and reflect on the evolving responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of AI's role in shaping the future of research. The course encourages students to consider both the potential benefits and challenges of integrating AI into research practices.
AI in ResearchResearch EthicsAI ToolsResearch ValidityResearcher RolesMachine LearningData Analysis
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.Hogyan alakítja át a mesterséges intelligencia a kutatást, figyelembe véve az etikai kérdéseket, az eredmények érvényességét és a kutatók szerepének változását?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • Hogyan alkalmazhatĂł a mestersĂ©ges intelligencia a kutatási folyamat kĂĽlönbözĹ‘ szakaszaiban?
  • Milyen etikai kĂ©rdĂ©sek merĂĽlnek fel a mestersĂ©ges intelligencia kutatásban törtĂ©nĹ‘ felhasználásakor?
  • Hogyan befolyásolja a mestersĂ©ges intelligencia a kutatási eredmĂ©nyek Ă©rvĂ©nyessĂ©gĂ©t Ă©s megbĂ­zhatĂłságát?
  • Milyen kĂ©szsĂ©gekre van szĂĽksĂ©g a kutatĂłknak a mestersĂ©ges intelligencia hatĂ©kony alkalmazásához?
  • Hogyan változtatja meg a mestersĂ©ges intelligencia a kutatĂłk szerepĂ©t Ă©s felelĹ‘ssĂ©gĂ©t?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Understand the applications of AI in research processes.
  • Identify and analyze ethical considerations related to AI in research.
  • Evaluate the impact of AI on the validity and reliability of research findings.
  • Develop skills necessary for the effective application of AI in research.
  • Analyze the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

'The AI Research Takeover - A Dystopian Future?'

Present students with a short, fictional film depicting a future where AI dominates the research landscape, leading to unforeseen negative consequences. Students analyze the film and discuss how to prevent such a dystopian scenario, focusing on responsible AI implementation.

'AI Research Tool Fair'

Organize a 'tool fair' where different AI-powered research tools are showcased. Students explore and test these tools, evaluating their potential benefits and drawbacks for various research tasks.

'AI-Generated Research Paper Challenge'

Challenge students to identify AI-generated content in a collection of research papers. This activity sharpens their critical thinking skills and raises awareness about the potential for AI to create fraudulent or misleading research.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

AI Research Landscape Exploration

Students will begin by exploring the current landscape of AI in research. This involves researching various AI tools and technologies being used in different research fields.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Conduct preliminary research on AI applications in various research fields (e.g., medicine, social sciences, engineering).
2. Identify specific AI tools and technologies used in research (e.g., machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, data mining).
3. Write a brief summary of your findings, highlighting the most promising and widely used AI applications.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA summary report outlining the current applications of AI in research, including specific tools and technologies.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: Understand the applications of AI in research processes.
Activity 2

Ethical AI Debate

Students will participate in a structured debate focusing on the ethical implications of using AI in research. This activity encourages critical thinking about potential biases, privacy concerns, and the responsible use of AI.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research ethical issues related to AI in research, such as bias in algorithms, data privacy, and the potential for misuse.
2. Prepare arguments for both sides of a selected ethical dilemma (e.g., Should AI be used to make decisions about research funding?).
3. Participate in a class debate, presenting your arguments and engaging with opposing viewpoints.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA well-researched debate presentation and reflection paper on the ethical considerations discussed.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: Identify and analyze ethical considerations related to AI in research.
Activity 3

Validity and Reliability Analysis

Students will analyze research papers that have utilized AI tools, focusing on how AI has impacted the validity and reliability of the findings.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Select several research papers that have used AI tools or techniques.
2. Critically analyze the methodology and results of each paper, paying attention to how AI may have affected the validity and reliability of the findings.
3. Write a comparative analysis, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of using AI in each context and its overall impact on research integrity.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comparative analysis report on the impact of AI on the validity and reliability of research findings.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: Evaluate the impact of AI on the validity and reliability of research findings.
Activity 4

AI Skill Development Workshop

Students will participate in hands-on workshops to develop practical skills in using AI tools for research purposes.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Attend workshops focusing on specific AI tools relevant to research (e.g., machine learning software, data analysis tools).
2. Practice using these tools on sample datasets or research questions.
3. Document your learning process, including challenges faced and skills acquired.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA portfolio demonstrating proficiency in using selected AI tools for research, including sample outputs and a reflective journal.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: Develop skills necessary for the effective application of AI in research.
Activity 5

The Future of the Researcher

Students will explore how AI is changing the roles and responsibilities of researchers, considering both the opportunities and challenges presented by these changes.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Interview researchers who are currently using AI in their work.
2. Research the predicted future roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI.
3. Write a reflective essay discussing how AI will change the researcher's role, including the need for new skills and ethical considerations.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA reflective essay on the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI, incorporating insights from interviews and research.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: Analyze the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

AI in Research Portfolio Rubric

Category 1

AI Research Landscape Exploration

Demonstrates understanding of AI applications and tools in research fields.
Criterion 1

Scope of Exploration

Depth and breadth of research into AI applications in various research fields.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates comprehensive and insightful exploration of AI applications across a wide range of research fields. Identifies innovative and emerging AI tools.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates thorough exploration of AI applications in several research fields. Identifies commonly used AI tools and technologies.

Developing
2 Points

Shows emerging exploration of AI applications in a limited number of research fields. Identifies some AI tools, but understanding is basic.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows initial exploration of AI applications with limited understanding. Struggles to identify specific AI tools and technologies.

Criterion 2

Summary Quality

Clarity, conciseness, and accuracy of the summary report.

Exemplary
4 Points

The summary report is exceptionally clear, concise, and insightful. It provides a well-organized and accurate overview of AI applications in research, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic.

Proficient
3 Points

The summary report is clear, concise, and accurate. It provides a well-organized overview of AI applications in research.

Developing
2 Points

The summary report is somewhat unclear or incomplete. It provides a basic overview of AI applications in research but may lack detail or organization.

Beginning
1 Points

The summary report is unclear, incomplete, and/or inaccurate. It fails to provide a coherent overview of AI applications in research.

Category 2

Ethical AI Debate

Demonstrates understanding of ethical considerations related to AI in research through debate and reflection.
Criterion 1

Argumentation

Strength and persuasiveness of arguments presented during the debate.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents exceptionally strong and persuasive arguments, demonstrating deep understanding of ethical dilemmas and nuanced perspectives. Effectively anticipates and addresses counterarguments.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents well-reasoned and persuasive arguments, demonstrating thorough understanding of ethical dilemmas. Addresses counterarguments effectively.

Developing
2 Points

Presents arguments that are somewhat underdeveloped or unpersuasive. Shows basic understanding of ethical dilemmas but struggles to address counterarguments.

Beginning
1 Points

Presents weak or unclear arguments. Shows limited understanding of ethical dilemmas and fails to address counterarguments.

Criterion 2

Reflection Quality

Depth and insightfulness of the reflection paper on ethical considerations.

Exemplary
4 Points

The reflection paper demonstrates exceptional depth and insight, offering a nuanced and critical analysis of the ethical considerations discussed. Shows a sophisticated understanding of complex issues and proposes innovative solutions.

Proficient
3 Points

The reflection paper demonstrates thorough understanding and insight, offering a thoughtful analysis of the ethical considerations discussed.

Developing
2 Points

The reflection paper demonstrates basic understanding of ethical considerations but lacks depth and insight. Analysis is superficial.

Beginning
1 Points

The reflection paper demonstrates limited understanding of ethical considerations and lacks analysis. Reflection is minimal.

Category 3

Validity and Reliability Analysis

Demonstrates ability to critically analyze the impact of AI on research validity and reliability.
Criterion 1

Analytical Depth

Depth and thoroughness of the analysis of research papers using AI.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides an exceptionally deep and thorough analysis of research papers using AI, demonstrating sophisticated understanding of methodological nuances and potential biases. Identifies subtle impacts on validity and reliability.

Proficient
3 Points

Provides a thorough analysis of research papers using AI, demonstrating clear understanding of methodological considerations and potential biases. Identifies key impacts on validity and reliability.

Developing
2 Points

Provides a basic analysis of research papers using AI, showing emerging understanding of methodological considerations. Identifies some impacts on validity and reliability, but analysis is limited.

Beginning
1 Points

Provides a superficial analysis of research papers using AI, showing limited understanding of methodological considerations. Fails to adequately assess impacts on validity and reliability.

Criterion 2

Comparative Insight

Quality of the comparative analysis report discussing strengths and weaknesses.

Exemplary
4 Points

The comparative analysis report is exceptionally insightful and well-reasoned, providing a nuanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of using AI in different research contexts. Offers innovative suggestions for improving research integrity.

Proficient
3 Points

The comparative analysis report is insightful and well-reasoned, providing a balanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of using AI in different research contexts.

Developing
2 Points

The comparative analysis report provides a basic comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of using AI in different research contexts but lacks depth and insight.

Beginning
1 Points

The comparative analysis report is superficial and lacks clear comparisons. Fails to adequately evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of using AI in different research contexts.

Category 4

AI Skill Development Workshop

Demonstrates practical skills in using AI tools for research and reflects on the learning process.
Criterion 1

Tool Proficiency

Demonstrated ability to effectively use selected AI tools.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in using selected AI tools, showcasing advanced techniques and innovative applications. Produces high-quality outputs that effectively address complex research questions.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates proficiency in using selected AI tools, producing quality outputs that address research questions effectively.

Developing
2 Points

Shows emerging proficiency in using selected AI tools. Outputs are functional but may require further refinement.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to use selected AI tools effectively. Outputs are incomplete or inaccurate.

Criterion 2

Reflective Journal Quality

Insightfulness and completeness of the reflective journal documenting the learning process.

Exemplary
4 Points

The reflective journal provides exceptionally insightful and detailed documentation of the learning process, including challenges faced, skills acquired, and innovative strategies for overcoming obstacles. Shows a deep understanding of personal growth and metacognition.

Proficient
3 Points

The reflective journal provides thorough and insightful documentation of the learning process, including challenges faced and skills acquired.

Developing
2 Points

The reflective journal provides basic documentation of the learning process but lacks detail and insight. Challenges and skills are described superficially.

Beginning
1 Points

The reflective journal is incomplete and lacks meaningful reflection. Fails to adequately document the learning process.

Category 5

The Future of the Researcher

Demonstrates understanding of the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI.
Criterion 1

Interview Integration

Effective incorporation of insights from researcher interviews.

Exemplary
4 Points

Seamlessly integrates insightful perspectives from researcher interviews, using direct quotes and detailed examples to support arguments and demonstrate a deep understanding of the evolving researcher role. Connects interview findings to broader trends in AI and research.

Proficient
3 Points

Effectively integrates relevant perspectives from researcher interviews to support arguments and demonstrate understanding of the evolving researcher role.

Developing
2 Points

Includes some perspectives from researcher interviews, but integration is superficial and lacks clear connection to arguments.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to adequately incorporate insights from researcher interviews. Interview content is irrelevant or missing.

Criterion 2

Essay Depth

Depth and insightfulness of the reflective essay on the evolving researcher role.

Exemplary
4 Points

The reflective essay is exceptionally insightful and well-reasoned, providing a nuanced and critical analysis of the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI. Proposes innovative strategies for adapting to these changes and addressing ethical considerations.

Proficient
3 Points

The reflective essay is insightful and well-reasoned, providing a thorough analysis of the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers in the age of AI.

Developing
2 Points

The reflective essay provides a basic overview of the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers but lacks depth and insight.

Beginning
1 Points

The reflective essay is superficial and lacks clear analysis. Fails to adequately address the evolving roles and responsibilities of researchers.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

How has your understanding of AI's role in research evolved during this course?

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Question 2

Which AI tool or technique do you find most promising for your future research endeavors? Explain your choice.

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Required
Question 3

To what extent do you feel prepared to address the ethical challenges presented by AI in research?

Scale
Required
Question 4

What is the most significant challenge researchers face when integrating AI into their work?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Data bias
Lack of technical skills
Ethical considerations
Limited access to AI tools
Question 5

How will you ensure that your use of AI in research is responsible and ethical? Provide specific examples.

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Required