EXLAIM: Augmenting Teaching and Learning with Generative AI
North Carolina State University·Raleigh, NC·2026 cycle
Closed for cycleComputational/Data ScienceHumanities✓ verified
Building on evidence-based strategies in project-based and active learning, EXLAIM participants will engage in a learn-apply-reflect cycle, using MerryQuery, a retrieval-augmented generation chatbot, to scaffold lesson planning and assessment design. EXLAIM Participants will work in groups to iteratively prototype AI-enhanced instructional modules that integrate safety considerations, outlier detection, and reliability checks for classroom implementation. Structured mentorship with faculty, graduate students, and industry mentors, along with peer collaboration, will reinforce skill acquisition and facilitate integration into emerging technology careers. The EXLAIM project unites cutting-edge AI tool development with constructivist teacher learning, generating novel insights into how GenAI can be embedded within K–12 pedagogies to enhance instructional effectiveness. Broader impacts include expanding access to AI-focused professional development for educators in under-resourced and geographically dispersed school districts in North Carolina, developing graduate and undergraduate students who can work across disciplines, strengthening cross-sector partnerships, and creating open-access curricular resources shared nationally to other teachers through the Computer Science Teachers Association. By empowering educators and undergraduate students as AI leaders, this EXLAIM initiative will foster a sustainable pipeline of AI-literate students and prepare them for future STEM careers at the intersection of human and artificial intelligence.
chatbots, generative AI, teaching, learning, K-12 education, computing, programming, STEM
Applicants must be one of the following: In-service K-12 teachers, who are teaching in U.S. public schools. Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents in Computer Science or related bachelor's programs, who have 2+ years of software development experience. Nice-to-have: We prefer if applicants have experience with generative AI for teaching and/or learning. It is preferable if undergraduate participants have web design and/or development experience. It is preferable if teachers have experience working with technology in their classrooms.
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