Community Biotechnology
Empowering global synthetic biology learners using a robotic cloud lab network for enabling collaborative, scalable research projects
David S. Kong
To enhance bio literacy and engagement with synthetic biology, Kong aims to expand the MIT Media Lab course, How to Grow (Almost) Anything, by creating a global “robotic cloud lab network,” allowing users without regular access to wet labs the opportunity to experiment and create. This network, organized by MIT, Harvard researchers, and supported by global teaching assistants, will provide community labs with programmable robots and supplies and a handbook to guide learning exercises. In Spring 2025, Kong will execute a global research project on protein therapies for antibiotic-resistant bacteria across the robotic cloud lab network.
Fluid Interfaces
NeuroChat: bridging the gap in personalized education through physiological sensing integration in AI-based adaptive learning platforms
Nataliya Kosmyna and Professor Pattie Maes
Generative AI could revolutionize education by offering personalized learning, but its implementation remains uncertain. The novelty of chatbots may fade, and improper management of learning speeds could widen achievement gaps. Addressing these challenges, Kosmyna aims to develop an adaptive learning platform, called NeuroChat, using brain sensing biofeedback and generative AI that will aim to personalize responses based on cognitive states. Working with platforms such as Khan Academy, NeuroChat seeks to provide customized support, enhancing individual learning paths and potential.
Lifelong Kindergarten
Remixable resources to expand creative learning opportunities with OctoStudio
Natalie Rusk
Led by MIT Media Lab’s Lifelong Kindergarten group, Rusk will create remixable educational resources for the OctoStudio mobile coding app. These resources will help educators in the Global South and beyond engage students in creative, project-based learning, building skills like creative thinking and problem-solving. The project includes educator guides, workshop slides, coding cards, and sample projects, all designed with input from diverse cultural contexts and available in multiple languages.
Personal Robots
Interactive social robots for nurturing social-emotional skills in Arabic-speaking refugee children through culturally sensitive design and algorithms
Sharifa Alghowinem and Hae Won Park
Refugee children from Arabic-speaking countries face integration challenges due to language barriers, literacy struggles, and social-emotional difficulties. Existing methods often fail to preserve their native language and cultural identity, impacting their education and well-being. Alghowinem and Park will develop an AI-driven social robot platform that aims to address these needs with customized Arabic automatic speech recognition, text to speech, and interactive applications. This platform will enhance reading, vocabulary, and social-emotional learning through culturally sensitive interactions.