2026 Science x AI x Engineering Workshop

While computational thinking originated in computer science, computational practices like abstraction, decomposition, and algorithmic thinking are now embedded in all STEM fields. This has been recognized by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), which view computational thinking and engineering design as core science practices and calls for their integration into K-12 STEM courses. However, incorporating computational thinking and engineering design into existing STEM courses is not always straight-forward. This interactive workshop will discuss some practical ways to make this integration work and explore how recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) could provide exciting new opportunities to support students and teachers through this process.

The day includes interactive breakout sessions, where you will experience inquiry-driven activities connected to real-world problems, such as how electrical muscle activity can be used to control a bionic arm. You will also interact with NGSS-aligned curriculum materials and technology, participate in a gallery walk to learn about teacher- and researcher-led projects, and hear from the 2024 California Teacher of the Year about practical classroom applications of AI. You will leave with a ready-to-use curriculum, a bionic arm toolkit, and practical AI strategies. 

In addition to the in-person workshop, you will have the opportunity to complete an additional four hours of asynchronous work to receive a certificate (total of 10 professional development points).

We are a collective of researchers, educators, and STEM professionals passionate about improving education through collaboration. We conduct research at the intersection of neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, and education. You can read more about what kind of research we do.