Metaphors in Motion: Navigating the Embodied Landscape of Science Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

This talk explores the dynamic intersection of traditional embodied communication strategies and thetransformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on science education. Drawingfrom empirical research, I will first examine how science teachers use metaphors as embodied toolsto effectively convey complex scientific concepts, rooted in physical experiences that enhanceconceptual understanding and student engagement.Building on this foundation, I will then investigate the rapid advancements in GenAI and theirimplications for education. Human learning and meaning-making are inherently tied to our physicaland sensory experiences, contrasting with GenAI's advanced capabilities that lack the intrinsicembodiment of human cognition. This contrast raises significant questions about maintaining theembodied nature of educational experiences.Through a scoping literature review and theoretical insights, I will propose strategies for integratingAI technologies while preserving and enhancing embodied teaching practices. By fostering dialoguebetween established methodologies and emerging technologies, this talk aims to inspire educatorsand researchers to embrace new technologies with a deep appreciation for the embodied nature ofhuman learning.