Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies are transforming education, particularly in engineering and computing disciplines, where personalized learning, intelligent tutoring, and scalable educational interventions are becoming essential. In this talk, I will present my research at the intersection of learning sciences, AI, and computing education, exploring how AI-powered tools and large-scale data analytics can enhance teaching and learning in engineering, computing, and STEM education while also preparing students for the future workforce. I will begin by showcasing how my research tackles real-world educational challenges by integrating learning theories with advanced AI technologies. Additionally, I will highlight my contributions to AI cyberinfrastructure, including the development of education-specific generative AI models that have been utilized widely. My work also addresses the urgent need for a well-prepared computing workforce, advancing innovative approaches to AI, data science, and computer science education. Finally, I will outline my future research vision and funding agenda, emphasizing strategies to further advance AI-driven learning environments, fair and transparent AI in education, and workforce development initiatives in computing and engineering.

Bio: Dr. Wanli Xing is the Informatics for Education Associate Professor of Educational Technology at the University of Florida and Director of Advanced and Inclusive Computing for Education Lab (AICE Lab). His research focuses on understanding the learning processes in technology-mediated STEM and online learning environments, creating the next generation educational technologies powered by artificial intelligence (AI), and future computing workforce development. He pursues the research program primarily through the methodological framework of machine learning, data mining, and design-based research. His research has been extensively funded by NSF, ONR, NIST, IES, NSA, Florida Department of Education, and various private foundations for ~$32M in total and ~$15M as PI. Dr. Wanli Xing received his PhD in Information Science & Learning Technologies from the University of Missouri.