AI and XR: Driving Innovation in Education at NC State

NC State College of Education Ventures into Cutting-Edge Research and Learning Experiences

NC State College of Education is pioneering new paths in educational research and student learning through two forward-thinking projects funded by the college’s Innovation Fellows Program. These projects—focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR)—are set to redefine how education blends with technology to create transformative experiences.

AI-Augmented Qualitative Analysis: Redefining Research with Intelligence

The “AI-Augmented Qualitative Analysis” project is at the intersection of artificial intelligence and educational research. Led by Assistant Professor Ela Castellanos-Reyes, the initiative empowers graduate students and faculty with practical AI tools to enhance qualitative data analysis. This innovative approach not only enhances the accuracy of research but ensures ethical AI use in data interpretation.

Assistant Professor Florence Martin emphasized the project’s significance, noting, “The responsible integration of AI in educational research is crucial, and our project highlights maintaining the validity and rigor often needed in qualitative inquiries using LLMs (Large Language Models).” Participants will engage in a transformative workshop designed to introduce AI-adapted coding techniques and data preparation methods, providing them a new lens to view their work.

MuseXR: Creating Experiences Beyond Reality

Under the leadership of Joey Huang and Qiao Jin, “MuseXR” offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to design and facilitate XR-supported learning activities. XR technology immerses learners in environments where digital and physical worlds merge, fostering creativity and dialogue.

This initiative involves developing a course module inspired by the North Carolina Museum of Art’s collection. Students will craft innovative museum experiences, merging real-world data with digital interactions. “MuseXR illustrates the vast potential of XR in educational contexts,” said Huang, foreseeing an immersive future where students transition from digital learners to creators in innovative environments.

Crossing Boundaries in Education: An Interdisciplinary Approach

What sets these projects apart is the interdisciplinary collaboration that underscores the college’s vision. Whether it’s equipping students with new research methodologies or redefining how learners interact with content, the projects exemplify the convergence of art, technology, and education. As stated in NC State University, these initiatives affirm the college’s dedication to imaginative and impactful educational practices.

The college’s Director of Education, Michelle Harrell, will provide feedback at the project’s class showcase, further highlighting the practical impact of these collaborative efforts. By interlinking academic theories with real-world applications, NC State continues to chart a course towards educational excellence and innovation.