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Artificial Intelligence

Definition:

AI is a human-made system, such as a computer program, that exercises problem-solving or decision-making abilities normally associated with humans.

 

AI instruction can fit into two main categories: When learning about how AI works or building AI systems, this is part of computer science. On the other hand, AI literacy is using AI for learning and productivity and recognizing when AI is being used.

Practical Application

AI is used in many of the devices and tools we use in our everyday lives. Anything that makes recommendations for you or operates in absence of a human controller (like a robot vaccum) relies on AI.

Three Examples of how a professional or person might use artificial intelligence:

People interface with AI systems every day. Here are three examples of where the AI becomes more apparent.

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Over this last year, the world has heard a lot about generative AI - AI that uses massive data sets in order to generate text, images, or other things. The most popular generative AI is ChatGPT. People ask generative AIs questions or provide it promts through the internet, and then use the output in a variety of ways.

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AI appears a lot in how we interact with family and friends online. Most social media platforms use AI algorithms to determine who's post you see, and prioritize content that will keep you on the site longer.

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Software engineers are already using AI to help them write better programs, as well as do better testing of existing programs in order to approve their products.​ Understanding how best to use AI to make your job more efficient is a critical skill.

Are there SPECIFIC standards for artificial intelligence?

​The current CSTA standards have some standards around algorithms that could be considered fundamental learning accross the board. Here are some other examples of state standards that have AI.

  • AI4K12 Grade Band Progression Charts

  • Ohio Computer Science standards

  • Georgia AI CTAE High School Course Framework - Foundations of Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence Concepts, Artificial Intelligence Applications​

Are there places where artificial intelligence appears in other standards?

At this time there has not been a lot of writing about how instruction about AI fits into other standards. Common Sense Media is developing a AI ed review framework that is really interesting and potentially helpful as a source: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/aiframework

What are good starting resources for a teacher or administrator?

​The following sites and organizations have some good starting points for teachers and administrators.

Are there any media or stories of artificial intelligence out there? 

In the past year there have been numerous stories about AI in education, as well as the need to teach fundamental AI to all students. The following are just a few:

How do ethics and social impacts intersect the study of AI? 

What keywords could be searched to find out more about artificial intelligence?

  • Machine learning

  • Large language model

  • Chatbots/Chat GPT

How do we build capacity to add AI to our instruction?

Professional learning

There are many communities supporting professional learning for teachers to teach computer science including AI. Check out your favorite curriculum provider, look for resources from your state, explore resources from the Computer Science Teachers Association, or search CSforALL's curriculum directory.

 

Financial Support

There is significant funding from both the public (state and federal) and private sector to increase the availability of computer science and that can be used in addition to AI specific funding that may be available. Much of that funding supports basic instruction in computer science, which can be inclusive of AI.

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Pathway planning and Support

  • CSforALL SCRIPT Program

  • Check with your local CSTA chapter or with your state department of education for upcoming professional learning and pathway planning opportunities.

  • CSTA has an affinity group for K-12 teachers dedicated to teaching AI and machine learning.

Fields of SC

How its connected

AI is the modern expression of algorithms, made possible by advancements in data scince, software design, and hardware. 

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