Development of a TPACK Educational Program to Enhance Pre-service Teachers’ Teaching Expertise in Artificial Intelligence Convergence Education

Abstract

This research focuses on developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based educational program within the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework to enhance the competency of pre-service teachers in AI convergence education. To assess the effectiveness of this program, South Korean pre-service teachers participated in a study where they engaged in AI convergence TPACK education. Freshman students were divided into two groups: one received traditional AI education, while the other took part in the AI convergence TPACK educational program. An evaluative tool was used to measure the AI-convergence teaching skills of these pre-service teachers. The results of the study revealed that the AI convergence TPACK educational program significantly contributed to developing AI convergence teaching capabilities among the participants. Furthermore, a comparative analysis demonstrated a substantial advantage in the AI convergence education skills of teachers who participated in the TPACK program compared to those who received AI education alone. Notably, the most significant improvements were observed in Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) and TPACK, which were identified as critical components of AI convergence teaching expertise. This research underscores the importance of a tailored and comprehensive approach to training pre-service teachers in the ever-evolving landscape of AI in education. It highlights the effectiveness of the AI convergence TPACK educational program in enhancing pre-service teachers' AI convergence teaching skills and emphasizes the pivotal role of PCK and TPACK in preparing educators for AI-integrated educational environments.