Using Scenario-based Generative AI to Prepare the Next Generation of Social Studies Educators

Timothy Lintner (School of Education, University of South Carolina Aiken, Aiken, South Carolina, United States)
Ellis Reeves (School of Education University of South Carolina Columbia, South Carolina, United States)

Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Vol 11 No 2 (2026): Research in Social Sciences and Technology (Special Issue)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly transforming the landscape of educator preparation. This shift is especially evident in social studies. As emerging technologies like AI reshape how social studies is taught and learned, it is essential to incorporate them into course design and student outcomes. Simply put, we must ensure that the next generation of social studies educators can effectively use AI to create real-world, scenario-based learning experiences that foster inquiry and encourage student action-taking. This article examines how AI-supported, scenario-based learning was strategically integrated into a secondary social studies methods course. From concept development to scenario creation to student utility and feedback, we will offer a theoretical and practical guide on how AI-supported scenario-based instruction influences teaching and learning. Emphasis will be placed on how this type of learning supports the National Council for the Social Studies C3 Framework (NCSS, 2013).