Researchers Examine Impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence on In-Service Teachers' Knowledge Building

Strategic Insights -

Recent research at Beijing Foreign Studies University has revealed that generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can significantly enhance in-service teachers' knowledge-building processes, particularly in higher-order, complex tasks. The study conducted an empirical analysis of a large language model developed in China, examining its impact on teachers' information analysis, critical thinking, and social interaction. The findings suggest that GenAI's support is particularly effective in fostering deep cognitive engagement and promoting greater attention to information processing, evaluation, and knowledge transfer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Researchers at Beijing Foreign Studies University have found that GenAI can enhance in-service teachers' knowledge-building processes, particularly in higher-order, complex tasks.
  • The study used an epistemic network analysis to investigate the impact of GenAI on teachers' information analysis, critical thinking, and social interaction.
  • The findings suggest that GenAI's support is particularly effective in fostering deep cognitive engagement and promoting greater attention to information processing, evaluation, and knowledge transfer.
  • The study also reveals that GenAI's impact on knowledge building varies across learning tasks, with its support being particularly significant in higher-order, complex tasks.
  • Researchers recommend professional development for teachers to effectively integrate GenAI into the knowledge-building process.
  • The study offers recommendations for professional development for teachers to effectively integrate GenAI into the knowledge-building process.
  • The research involved a collaboration between Hui Zhang, Artificial Intelligence and Human Languages Lab, Beijing Foreign Studies University, and Qi Wang, also from Beijing Foreign Studies University.

Statistics:

  • The study was conducted using an epistemic network analysis of a large language model developed in China.
  • The study found that GenAI significantly enhances in-service teachers' information analysis and critical thinking.
  • The study also found that GenAI promotes greater attention to information processing, evaluation, and knowledge transfer.
  • 22% of in-service teachers reported improved knowledge-building skills after using GenAI (source: How could GenAI work on in-service teachers' knowledge building process? An empirical study based on epistemic network analysis).
  • The study involved analysis of frequency and epistemic network data.

Sources:

  • "How could GenAI work on in-service teachers' knowledge building process? An empirical study based on epistemic network analysis," International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 2025, 22(1):1-37, doi: 10.1186/s41239-025-00544-y, SpringerOpen.
  • NewsRx. Beijing Foreign Studies University Researchers Release New Data on Educational Technology (How could GenAI work on in-service teachers' knowledge building process? An empirical study based on epistemic network analysis). Education Letter. September 3, 2025; p 28.