LLM-Supported Creative Project-Based Learning

🧩 Overview

This research explores how Large Language Models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, can support middle school students’ creativity during project-based learning (PBL). Through an observational study and a week-long instructional experiment with 31 students, the study identified five design considerations and proposed a novel LLM-empowered PBL program. Results show that LLMs can support all phases of PBL—from idea discovery to final presentation—by boosting creative self-efficacy and providing personalized, real-time feedback. The study also discusses students’ ambivalent perceptions of LLMs and highlights design implications for integrating AI tools into educational settings.

📚 Publication

Zha, S., Qiao, Y., Hu, Q., Li, Z., Gong, J., & Xu, Y. (2025). Designing child-centric AI learning environments: Insights from an LLM-powered creative project-based learning study. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 103602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2025.103602

🎯 Contributions
  • Conducted user interviews and thematic analysis
  • Co-designed the 48-hour instructional program
  • Supported on-site study coordination and data collection
  • Assisted in manuscript writing and figure design
LLM-supported PBL: classroom activity and framework figure
Classroom activity (left) and synthesized framework of ambivalent perspectives on LLMs in creativity (right).
Master Student in Industrial Design