A utilização das ferramentas Asksia Chemistry Solver, Easemate Ai Chemistry Solver e do laboratório virtual Chemcollective como ferramenta no ensino de química: potenciais e desafios

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an educational resource capable of supporting the teaching and learning process, especially in Chemistry education, an area in which many students face difficulties in understanding concepts and solving calculations. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the potential and challenges of using the AskSia Chemistry Solver, EaseMate AI Chemistry Solver, and the ChemCollective virtual laboratory as supporting resources for Chemistry teaching among undergraduate students in the Chemistry Teacher Education program at the Federal Institute of Piauí (IFPI) – Picos Campus. The research is characterized as a mixed-method study with a qualitative and quantitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, involving 27 undergraduate students. Initial and final questionnaires, diagnostic assessments conducted with and without the use of AI tools, and a practical activity using the ChemCollective virtual laboratory were applied. The results showed that Physical Chemistry was identified as the subject with the greatest level of difficulty by the participants and that AI is already widely used as a consultation tool to clarify doubts and solve exercises. After using the tools, an improvement was observed in students' performance regarding problem-solving, concept interpretation, and understanding of complex topics. ChemCollective was also positively evaluated for enabling experimental activities in situations where laboratories and reagents are unavailable. However, the participants identified limitations, such as inconsistent responses, difficulties in some calculations, equipment limitations, and the risk of technological dependence. It is concluded that Artificial Intelligence has the potential to contribute to Chemistry education, provided that it is used in a complementary, critical, and teacher-mediated manner, preserving students' autonomy.