AI Innovators: Engaging Youth in Co-Design of AI Museum Exhibits to Foster AI Literacy & Engineering Design Skills for STEM Futures

NSF Award Search · 1300PYXXDB H-1B FUND, EDU, NSF · $1,299,797 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This Developing and Testing Innovations project will advance efforts of the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) program to better understand and promote practices that increase students' knowledge and interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and information and communication technology (ICT) careers by engaging youth in the participatory design of artificial intelligence (AI) exhibits. As AI rapidly reshapes society and the workforce, today's youth must be given opportunities to build AI literacy so they are prepared to become active participants in the AI-powered future workforce. This project will empower up to 100 youth, ages 13-18, to become AI Innovators who will collaboratively create interactive AI exhibits. These exhibits will ultimately be featured in a public science museum, allowing broader audiences to explore AI principles and applications. As youth iteratively design the exhibits, they will explore the inner workings of AI, build technical know-how, strengthen their STEM identities, and develop interest in emerging AI career paths. The project will produce an easy-to-adopt model for other museums and after-school programs to expand access to AI/STEM workforce development and promote community engagement with rapidly evolving AI technologies. This collaborative initiative--led by The Lawrence Hall of Science in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of San Leandro--aims to equip a cohort of high s

Key facts

NSF award ID
2445525
Awardee
University of California-Berkeley (CA)
SAM.gov UEI
GS3YEVSS12N6
PI
Ari Krakowski
Primary program
1300PYXXDB H-1B FUND, EDU, NSF
All programs
AI-Supported Learning, AI Education/Workforce Develop, Broaden Particip STEM Resrch
Estimated total
$1,299,797
Funds obligated
$1,299,797
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/15/2025 → 08/31/2029