Glacies Recognizes University of Phoenix Study on AI in Science Education

University of Phoenix said in an announcement that its peer reviewed research on using AI and virtual environments in science education was named an Editor's Choice paper by Glacies. The study was published in February 2026.

The research examined the use of AI generated imagery, virtual landscapes, human centered instructional design and narratives that personify scientific processes. It was conducted in an environmental science course for adult learners and students outside science majors, using characters such as Nico Nitrogen, Remi Rock and Waverly Water.

Among surveyed students, 87.1% said they enjoyed the character narratives and 82% said the approach reinforced systems thinking. Student feedback also indicated that consistent visuals and narrative framing helped them understand relationships among Earth systems and explain scientific concepts.