Lehong Shi, Ph.D.

My research explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI (GenAI), and robotics on workforce preparation in K–12 education. I focus on four key areas: (1) supporting STEM teachers’ integration of AI into educational practices; (2) advancing STEM teachers’ AI literacy, competencies, and acceptance; (3) promoting teacher facilitation of students’ use of advanced technologies in STEM learning; and (4) examining global perspectives on AI-competent workforce development. Collectively, my work aims to strengthen workforce readiness in the era of AI.

I serve as Principal Investigator, Co-Principal Investigator, Co-Investigator, and key personnel on several funded and pending grants from the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), National Science Foundation (NSF), Spencer Foundation, Tides Foundation (Google), and the USDA. These projects develop GenAI- and large language model–based learning agents, assessment tools, and learning environments to enhance AI-facilitated student learning and AI-informed teacher decision-making, contributing to the broader mission of cultivating an AI-ready workforce.