Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Ethno-STEM Project-Based Learning to Support Students’ Science Inquiry Skills in Island Schools
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into STEM education provides opportunities to support inquiry-based and student-centered learning.However, implementing AI-supported learning in remote island schools remains challenging because of limited infrastructure, restricted digital access, and contextual educational barriers.This study examines how AI integrated into Ethno-STEM Project-Based Learning (Ethno-STEM PjBL) supports students' science inquiry skills in remote island schools.A descriptive mixed-method approach was employed involving 63 junior high school students on Lae-Lae Island, Indonesia.Learning activities were conducted through four contextual Ethno-STEM projects related to local food carbon footprints, renewable energy, waste management, and traditional water filtration.AI tools were used to support information exploration, idea generation, project organization, and scientific communication.Quantitative data were collected using a science inquiry skills test covering six dimensions: observing, classifying, hypothesizing, experimenting, using tools and materials, and communicating.Qualitative data were obtained through classroom observations, project documentation, and reflective discussions.Results showed relatively high inquiry skill performance across all dimensions, with observing obtaining the highest score (87%), followed by communicating (79%) and using tools and materials (78%).Qualitative findings indicated that AI-supported inquiry activities encouraged contextual investigation, collaborative exploration, and stronger connections between scientific concepts and local cultural practices.Despite challenges related to internet connectivity and digital literacy, the study suggests that AI-integrated Ethno-STEM PjBL has strong potential to enhance science inquiry skills in geographically isolated educational settings and contributes to discussions on culturally responsive and technology-supported STEM education.
Language: English
Topic: STEM Education
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7213445441