Science
Date: 16 March 2026
Time: 1400-1530
Venue: Teams
Presenters:
1. Ms Tan Jing Yan (Julienne) (Rosyth School)
2. Mr Chan Tai Yao (Anglo-chinese School (Primary))
Recent studies have shown that as we use AI tools more, our critical thinking skills tend to decline (e.g. Gerlich, 2025). As students increasingly rely on AI for decision-making and information retrieval, their ability to engage in reflective problem-solving and critical evaluation declines due to “cognitive offloading”. AI offers instant solutions and satisfies the human drive for cognitive ease, but over time, this reliance on AI may reduce their ability to evaluate information critically and think independently.
While primary students may not have many opportunities to interact with Gen AI in the classroom, they are the generation that will grow up in an AI-dominated world. Teachers can design AI-facilitated learning experiences with the aim of fostering critical thinking dispositions. Through everyday interactions and assessments, teachers can also teach students to value their thinking journey and have a growth mindset towards learning.
In this session, two Primary Science teachers will share their experiences and strategies in fostering critical thinking dispositions both when using AI and without, focusing on inquisitiveness, intrinsic motivation, reflection and self-efficacy. Nurturing these dispositions will also enhance students' ability in scientific reasoning and help them acquire traits of good scientists.
Ms Julienne is a science teacher in Rosyth School where she also serves as the Makerspace and Innovation Programme Coordinator. She has been teaching both mainstream and GEP students for several years. She holds a Joint Master of Science in Science Communication (NUS-ANU).
During her free time, she volunteers as a docent with the Lee Khong Chian Natural History Museum where she educates the public about our regional biodiversity.
Mr Chan Tai Yao is a science teacher in Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) and has been teaching both mainstream and GEP students for several years. He holds the LH/Science portfolio and is a long-serving E2K Science trainer cum mentor. Tai Yao is passionate about exploring curricular innovations such as interdisciplinary learning and using AI to benefit both teachers and students.