© Private / Stiftung Kinder forschen
Annual Peer Meeting: Exploring AI for Inclusive STEM Education
At this year's IDoS Peer Meeting in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Smithsonian Science Education Center, the IDoS peers came together to explore the question: "How can AI support inclusive, high-quality STEM Education?" In expert talks and collaborative workshops, they discussed how tools like large language models (LLMs) can enhance early STEM learning across countries – and laid the groundwork for future joint projects.
This year’s annual IDoS peer meeting took place in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Smithsonian Science Education Center in celebration of its 40th anniversary – marking four decades of advancing high-quality STEM Education for Sustainable Development from kindergarten through grade 12.
Participants from Stiftung Kinder forschen, Siemens Stiftung, the Office for Climate Education, La main à la pâte, and Luma Centre Finland gathered for two days of collaborative exchange, both in person and online.
Focus: Using AI to Enhance STEM Education
The focus of the 2025 meeting was “Using AI for Good STEM Education.” Through joint discussions and expert-led sessions, the peers explored innovative, responsible ways to integrate artificial intelligence into their educational work – aiming to enhance early STEM learning and ensure equitable access to quality education across countries.
Highlights included thought-provoking presentations from:
- Neil Heffernan, Founder and Board President of the ASSISTments Foundation and Professor of Computer Science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA), and
- Andy Forest, Founder of STEAMLabs and Senior Creative Technologist at the Scratch Foundation (Canada/USA).
Both experts showcased cutting-edge tools and shared insights into how LLMs and other AI technologies can support teaching and learning in diverse educational contexts.
A hands-on workshop followed, where peers collaboratively identified practical applications of AI within their organisations and educational programs. The goal: to better support teachers and learners and drive progress toward inclusive, high-quality STEM Education.
Turning Insights into Action: The Future of AI in STEM
Building on the discussions, the IDoS network will co-develop a concept note outlining how to use AI responsibly to strengthen STEM Education. This document will serve as the foundation for seeking international funding to implement joint projects inspired by this year’s meeting.
Impressions of the SSEC's Anniversary
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© Smithsonian Science Education Center / Dr. Carol O'Donnell, Director of the Smithsonian Science Education Center
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© Smithsonian Science Education Center / The Natural History Museum in Washington, D.C. where the SSEC celebrated 40 years of STEM Education
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© Smithsonian Science Education Center / IDoS Peers from France, the U.S., and Germany at the SSEC celebration