This study examined the effectiveness of a project-based learning (PBL) model supported by simulation tools and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in developing 21st-century skills, educational quality of life, and academic achievement in mathematics among sixth-grade female students in the United Arab Emirates. A quasi-experimental design with experimental and control groups was employed. The sample consisted of 60 sixth-grade female students from a public school in Al Ain, with 30 students assigned to each group. The experimental group was taught using the proposed PBL model supported by simulation tools and AI applications, including ChatGPT, AnyLogic, GeoGebra, and Canva, through the Learning Management System over seven weeks, comprising 21 lessons during the second semester of the 2024/2025 academic year, while the control group received traditional instruction.
Multiple validated instruments were used, including an achievement test, a 21st-century skills scale, an educational quality of life scale, a project final-product rubric, and a presentation skills observation checklist. Group equivalence was confirmed prior to the intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS through one-way ANCOVA, one-way MANCOVA, and independent-samples t-tests. The results revealed statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental group across all variables, with large effect sizes (η² = 0.672 for 21st-century skills, η² = 0.795 for educational quality of life, and η² = 0.568 for academic achievement). The t-test results also indicated superior project quality and presentation skills among students in the experimental group. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model in enhancing learning outcomes and improving experiences in digital environments.

Authors:
Farah Jawdat Khaled, Ministry of Education, United Arab Emirates
Aysha Saeed Alghfeli, Ministry of Education, United Arab Emirates

About the Presenter(s)
Aysha Saeed Alghfeli is an educational leader and Principal of AlKhair School in the UAE since 2018. She drives innovation, promotes student-centered learning, and conducts research in self-assessment strategies and mathematics education.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/farah-jawdat-khaled-220ab0162

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Farah-Khaled-6/research

Additional website of interest
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Aysha-Alghfeli-2

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