In-service teachers’ (mis)conceptions of artificial intelligence in K-12 science education

Society’s future depends on informed perspectives of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI related skills, a prognosis that greatly impacts K-12 education. To best prepare students to be AI savvy, there is a need to integrate AI tools, skills, and lessons into the K-12 curriculum. In order for teachers to develop the knowledge and skills, and have the self-efficacy for using AI in instruction, they must be well prepared and informed of what AI is (and what it is not) and its potential role in K-12 education. This study explored teachers’ (mis)conceptions relative to their intentional and informal learning. Our research provides important implications for teacher preparation and in-service professional development regarding AI in our society and implementation of AI tools and processes in K-12 education.