AI-Enhanced Science Literacy: Science Literacy Plus
摘要
AI is impacting scientific research, with potential for facilitation and acceleration. AI can enhance the common science practices of science literacy (i.e., asking questions and defining problems, developing and using models, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematics and computational thinking, constructing explanations and designing solutions, engaging in argument from evidence, and obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information). AI is also enabling scientific inquiries that were not traditionally possible, which makes AI for Science (AI4Science) an emerging science practice. AI4Science requires a reexamination of science literacy. There have been three main visions of science literacy, reflecting changes in society, understandings of science in society, and the goals of science education. Vision I science literacy can be enhanced by incorporating AI4Science as a new competency to develop among K-12 students. Vision II science literacy can be enhanced by making AI4Science a partner in applying science to solve everyday problems. Vision III science literacy (i.e., agency and action) can also be enhanced by responsible and ethical use of AI4Science to address vexing social, cultural, political, and environmental issues in science. We propose AI-enhanced science literacy, or science literacy plus, as an essential competency for everyone.