‘AI 101’ Training Available for Teachers

As the 2023-2024 school year gets underway, a group of ed-tech nonprofits are offering “AI 101 for Teachers” – a free professional learning course designed to “level the playing field” of artificial intelligence (AI) understanding among K-12 teachers.

Code.org, ETS, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and Khan Academy launched the five-part training video series ahead of the fall semester, aiming to address the “critical global need” on leveraging this new technology in the classrooms.

“AI 101 for Teachers addresses the pressing need to expand awareness and understanding of generative AI,” said Hadi Partovi, Founder and CEO of Code.org. “The release of ChatGPT has forever changed the educational landscape and will bring computer science into every classroom. Launching this free training underscores the importance of preparing teachers and students for the realities of a technology-driven society.”

In a press release, the non-profits said the course consists of a five-part video series.

The series will include: a fireside chat between leaders from the non-profits launching the course; three professional development videos covering the fundamentals of AI, how AI can be combined with pedagogy to enhance student learning, and the ethical considerations and best practices of AI; and a session on how to access and leverage free and customizable AI curriculum, content, and lesson plans available for use this fall within the classroom.

“This effort expands our commitment to empowering educators with the right information, enabling them to nurture students with the essential skills and strategic thinking necessary to navigate and thrive in an AI-infused world,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE.

In addition to the teacher trainings, the nonprofits are also launching resources to ensure that students and adults can understand and leverage the power of AI in an effective and responsible way.

Two new “How AI Works” videos along with accompanying lessons and curricula mean that classrooms can not only use AI but also understand how it works, the organizations said.

“Artificial Intelligence has the ability to transform public education into an equitable and efficient power for good and accelerate every student toward success,” Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said.

“These engaging and informative educational resources will enable students to fully realize their potential. We believe AI will streamline and complement the educational environment but could never substitute the human touch and talent our teachers bring to the classroom every day,” he added.

Teachers, administrators, and those interested in K-12 education and AI can register to gain access to the five-part training series by visiting https://code.org/ai/pl/101.