Dissertation Proposal Announcement Ph.D. Program: Changyun Liu, “Personalized Interactive Cognitive Scaffolding (PICS) for High School Students Struggling with Mathematics in Computer-Based Assessment”

This dissertation investigates the effectiveness of an AI-based platform, Personalized Interactive Cognitive Scaffolding (PICS) system, on enhancing word problem-solving skills among high school students, particularly those with mathematics learning difficulties (MLD). With high school math word problem-solving often presenting significant challenges due to its cognitive and linguistic demands, this study leverages AI to empower teachers to generate individualized computer-based assessments with testing accommodations or designated scaffolding tailored to each student’s needs.

A mixed-methods research design is employed, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative analyses. Study 1 examines teachers’ evaluations of AI-generated test items, focusing on the reliability, validity, and alignment of these items with curriculum standards. A rating rubric assesses key dimensions such as problem complexity, linguistic clarity, and cultural relevance. Study 2 measures the impact of the PICS system on students’ performance through a quasi-experimental design, assessing pre- and post-intervention gains in word problem-solving skills in comparison to a control group.

Results from this research aim to examine the pros and cons of AI in serving as a transformative tool in supporting struggling students, fostering independence in mathematical reasoning, and adapting to diverse learning needs. This dissertation will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on AI’s role in education, offering practical insights for integrating AI-driven scaffolding tools into mathematics instruction.