AI Planning is Elementary: Introducing Young Learners to Automated Problem Solving

Recent years have seen growing awareness of the need to advance AI literacy for K-12 students to empower them in understanding, evaluating, and using AI. Automated problem solving is a fundamental aspect of AI, enabling machines to mimic human problem-solving abilities. Fostering awareness and interest in AI capabilities such as automated problem solving should begin early, including in the elementary grades. Although AI planning can be a complex topic, leveraging the benefits of game-based learning offers a promising approach to engage young children in learning about this important AI concept. In this work, we explore the interactions and outcomes of upper elementary students (ages 8 to 11) playing a quest on AI planning embedded within a game-based learning environment. Results indicate that students experienced positive learning gains from pre-test to post-test, while analyzing trace data from the game provides insights into challenges students faced as they attempted the in-game missions.