It’s important for caregivers and educators to teach our kids about embracing AI in education in a smart and safe way. Millennials (born 1981-1996) and Gen Z (born 1997-2012) grew up with technology and see it as a normal part of life. By 2025, Gen Z will be 30% of the global workforce, bringing new ideas and ways of using AI.

Challenges and solutions with embracing AI in education

While Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds great promise for the future, it also poses challenges, such as the potential for misuse like cheating, and the risk of kids becoming lazy and overly reliant on AI. However simply blocking AI tools won’t stop plagiarism. Instead, we need to teach kids how to use these tools responsibly. It’s important for students, teachers, and parents to keep up with new technologies, understand their benefits, and manage their use properly.

How is KILT moving education forward?

At KILT, we prepare kids for the future with after-school programmes that teach important digital skills like computer literacy, coding, AI, and virtual and augmented reality. Our programmes cover topics from basic computer skills to more advanced ones like coding with Scratch and building with LEGO Robotics.

This year, KILT is also helping Math and Language teachers use technology more in their classrooms. Our Teacher Development Project aims to make learning fun and effective. We use frameworks like the SAMR model and TPACK:

• SAMR Model: Helps teachers see how technology can be used in different ways, from simple replacements of traditional methods to completely new ways of learning.

• TPACK: Combines technology, teaching methods, and subject knowledge to help teachers integrate technology effectively.

We focus on the 4 C’s: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, and Communication. Our theme for the year is DIeP (Deeply Integrated e-Pedagogy).

We started with the Flipped Classroom Strategy, where our kids review materials at home and use class time for interactive learning. Even with challenges like limited device access at home, we’ve adapted by using school labs.

In the second term, we used Game-Based Learning and Gamification to make learning fun and effective. We also introduced AI workshops for teachers to help them understand AI’s role in education and manage its use in student assignments.

By using these methods, we’re helping our children develop important skills for embracing AI in education and encouraging a love for e-Learning. Our work with teachers is creating a learning environment that promotes curiosity and critical thinking.

Combining Human Connection with AI

AI in education offers great opportunities for teachers and kids alike. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw how important human connection and teacher guidance are—something AI can’t replace. However, AI can help with administrative tasks, saving teachers time, which they can then dedicate to personalised child interaction. AI can automate tasks like lesson planning, grading, and giving real-time feedback, saving teachers up to 13 hours a week. It also supports personalised learning by tailoring content to each student’s needs. Studies show that students who get immediate feedback can improve their performance by 12%.

How do we embrace AI in education going forward?

Embracing AI in education will continue to grow, bringing both opportunities and challenges. We need to address issues like privacy, data security, and fairness in AI systems. Teachers need continuous training to stay updated on AI developments.

 

Here are 6 ways we can teach our kids to embrace AI in education responsibly:

 

1. Digital Literacy Programmes: Teach children about the ethical use of AI and technology, including data privacy and recognising bias.

2. Practical Workshops: Hands-on workshops to help kids understand how AI works, its benefits, and its limitations.

3. Critical Thinking Exercises: Encourage our kids to think critically about AI applications and explore potential ethical dilemmas.

4. Parental Involvement: Involve parents in learning about AI and supporting responsible use of technology at home.

5. Collaborative Projects: Use projects that require children to work together with AI tools, emphasising collaborative teamwork and ethical use.

6. Policy Development: Work with policymakers to create guidelines for the responsible use of AI in education, ensuring fairness and inclusivity.

 

By embracing these strategies, we can empower our children to confidently and responsibly navigate the exciting future of AI. They’ll use it as a support tool to enhance their learning and creativity without becoming reliant, staying mindful of its ethical implications, and paving the way for a brighter and more innovative tomorrow.