Faculty and Staff AI Resource Repository

STEM Prompting Strategies

Specialized prompting techniques for effective STEM education and problem-solving.

STEM education requires unique approaches to AI prompting that accommodate technical content, mathematical notation, and scientific precision. This guide explores specialized prompting strategies that help faculty leverage AI tools effectively in STEM teaching and learning.

Technical Precision

Key Elements:

  • Exact terminology usage
  • Unit specification
  • Variable definition
  • Notation clarity

Problem Structure

Components:

  • Given information
  • Required calculations
  • Expected format
  • Solution steps

Mathematics

Sample Prompt Template:

"Generate a step-by-step solution for this [calculus/algebra/etc.] problem:

  • Show all work clearly
  • Explain each step
  • Include relevant formulas
  • Highlight key concepts

Problem: [Insert problem]"

Physics

Sample Prompt Template:

"Create a physics problem solution that includes:

  • Initial conditions
  • Relevant equations
  • Step-by-step calculations
  • Unit analysis

Problem: [Insert problem]"

Engineering

Sample Prompt Template:

"Develop a design solution that addresses:

  • Technical requirements
  • Constraints
  • Calculations
  • Implementation considerations

Problem: [Insert scenario]"

Solution Development

Framework Steps:

  1. Problem Analysis
    • Identify known variables
    • Define unknowns
    • List constraints
    • State assumptions
  2. Solution Planning
    • Select methods
    • Outline steps
    • Choose equations
    • Plan verification
  3. Implementation
    • Show calculations
    • Track units
    • Document process
    • Check results

Explanation Generation

Structure:

  • Concept introduction
  • Mathematical foundation
  • Application examples
  • Common pitfalls

Concept Explanation

Original Prompt:

"Explain derivatives."

Enhanced Prompt:

"Explain the concept of derivatives in calculus, including:

  • Basic definition and notation
  • Geometric interpretation
  • Basic rules with examples
  • Real-world applications
  • Common student misconceptions

Use clear mathematical notation and provide visual description where helpful."

Problem Generation

Original Prompt:

"Create physics problems."

Enhanced Prompt:

"Generate three physics problems about projectile motion that:

  • Progress in difficulty
  • Include real-world scenarios
  • Require multiple concepts
  • Have complete solutions
  • Include common error warnings

Provide step-by-step solutions with clear explanations."

Technical Accuracy

Educational Value

Notation Issues

Complexity Management

Effective STEM prompting requires: