BOONE, N.C. — Dr. Madeline Hinckle, assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, has completed the first phase of the Expanding the Methods of Education Researchers with Generative AI (EMERGai) Institute, an NSF‑funded program that supports early‑ and mid‑career STEM education researchers in learning to use generative AI tools effectively and responsibly across the research process.
Hinckle joined App State in Fall 2024. She earned her bachelor’s degree in physics from UNC Chapel Hill before teaching high school physics and astronomy while completing her M.Ed. at Clemson University. She later earned her Ph.D. in STEM Education from NC State University, where her research focused on integrating computer science into science instruction.
In a message to the department, EMERGai Principal Investigator Dr. George Veletsianos, professor at the University of Minnesota, recognized Hinckle’s accomplishment and ongoing participation in the year‑long institute. He noted that the Summer Workshop, held July 20-24, 2026, at the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation at NC State University, brought together a highly competitive national cohort of researchers “from colleges and universities across the United States.”
The week‑long workshop introduced participants to emerging methods for integrating generative AI into STEM education research. According to the EMERGai Institute, participants “examined the opportunities and challenges of generative artificial intelligence in the research process, developed practical strategies for integrating AI into scholarly workflows, explored ethical and methodological considerations, and collaborated with other researchers.” They also advanced their own projects by designing AI-supported workflows that promote “rigorous, transparent, and responsible research practices.”
Completion of the Summer Workshop marks the beginning of Hinckle’s continued engagement with EMERGai throughout the academic year. As part of the institute’s national community of practice, she will participate in mentoring, collaborative learning, and applied research activities as she refines and implements her chosen project.
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The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s curriculum has an applied nature that includes a core of fundamental physics courses and laboratory experiences. The department prepares graduates for a variety of scientific, teaching, or engineering professions, as well as future educational endeavors. Learn more about the Department of Physics and Astronomy
Dr. Madeline Hinckle
Dr. Madeline Hinckle