StatWiseAI: An AI-Powered Educational Tool for Enhancing Methodological Rigor in Large-Scale Data Analysis - Abstract: The analysis of complex, large-scale datasets is critical for advancing biomedical and behavioral research but is often hindered by limited access to statistical expertise and resources. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers a promising solution by providing tailored, scalable, and accessible guidance to researchers, enabling them to overcome these challenges. This R25 proposal responds to RFA-DA-25-039: Education Activities for Responsible Analyses of Complex, Large-Scale Data. The overarching goal is to develop, evaluate, and disseminate StatWiseAI, an AI-powered educational tool that supports methodological rigor in analyzing complex datasets involving brain, behavioral, genomic, and socioenvironmental data. By leveraging OpenAI’s GPT-4, StatWiseAI will provide tailored, expert-informed guidance to researchers, enhancing their ability to conduct rigorous, reproducible, and ethically grounded analyses. This project has three specific aims. Aim 1: To develop StatWiseAI as an AI-powered educational tool for rigorous data analysis. We will curate domain-specific knowledge, fine-tune GPT-4 using expert-verified case studies, and design interactive features that allow researchers to explore advanced analytical methods relevant to their disciplines. Aim 2: To evaluate StatWiseAI through pilot testing among NIH investigators. The evaluation will focus on usability, content quality, and feasibility, using both subjective measures (e.g., user feedback) and objective measures (e.g., AI-generated response quality compared to ChatGPT). Insights from the evaluation will inform iterative refinements. Aim 3: To disseminate StatWiseAI and assess its long-term impact. We will implement StatWiseAI across diverse NIH research communities, collaborating with NIH training programs and leveraging professional conferences. Regular updates will ensure the tool remains technologically and scientifically current, meeting evolving user needs. StatWiseAI is distinguished from generic AI tools like ChatGPT through its integration of curated resources, expert-verified case studies, systematic prompt training, and periodic expert reviews. It offers a unique educational experience, helping users build AI literacy alongside content expertise. The tool is designed to address common pain points researchers encounter, including integrating disparate datasets, mitigating biases, and navigating advanced statistical methods. The proposed project builds on the PD/PI’s extensive expertise in AI integration, behavioral science, and health informatics. The interdisciplinary team includes experts in neuroimaging, genomics, behavioral science, biostatistics, AI ethics, and computer science, ensuring comprehensive support for StatWiseAI’s development and dissemination. StatWiseAI will transform the way researchers approach complex data analysis, reducing barriers to statistical expertise and fostering a research culture of enhanced methodological rigor, reproducibility, and innovation. By empowering researchers across all career stages, it will contribute to advancing the field and producing high-impact, reliable science.
