Review Article

Artificial intelligence in STEM education: A systematic synthesis of trends, tools, and implications (2014-2025)

Karthikeyan P 1 *
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1 Amity Institute of Education, Amity University, Noida, INDIA* Corresponding Author
Contemporary Mathematics and Science Education, 7(1), January 2026, ep26002, https://doi.org/10.30935/conmaths/17894
Submitted: 26 July 2025, Published: 11 February 2026
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ABSTRACT

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education has advanced rapidly over the last decade, with significant acceleration post-COVID-19. This review investigates how AI has been employed to enhance STEM teaching and learning, evaluates the dominant research methodologies used, and identifies key trends and challenges in the field between 2014 and 2024. A systematic literature review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses protocol. An initial pool of 1,200 peer-reviewed articles was identified from databases such as Semantic Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. After rigorous screening, 30 high-quality studies were included for final analysis. Each paper was analyzed across variables such as authorship, year, educational level, AI tools used, STEM domain, country, methodology, and core findings. Post-2020 research shows a clear increase in the use of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and empirical designs. Studies increasingly employ design-based and theoretical approaches to address AI ethics, creativity, and learner-centered interaction. AI applications most often support intelligent tutoring, automated feedback, and personalized learning strategies in secondary and higher education. The review highlights AI’s transformative potential in STEM education while also emphasizing ethical, infrastructural, and pedagogical challenges. Future research should focus on inclusive and context-sensitive implementation strategies.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, STEM education, systematic literature review, computational thinking, K-12 education, digital pedagogy

CITATION (APA)

Karthikeyan P (2026). Artificial intelligence in STEM education: A systematic synthesis of trends, tools, and implications (2014-2025). Contemporary Mathematics and Science Education, 7(1), ep26002. https://doi.org/10.30935/conmaths/17894

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