In today's tech-filled world, artificial intelligence (AI) is really beginning to bloom at a rapid pace making our lives easier in many respects, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. As teachers, it's our job to help students understand the ins and outs of AI – the good, the bad, and the kinda scary. This article is all about giving you practical tips for teaching your students about the risks that comes with AI, like dangers and ethical dilemmas. Plus, I will share with you a ready made AI lesson which you can deliver with ease to help you teach your students on this subject! So, let's jump in and make sure our students are ready to handle the next generation of the technological industrial revolution, responsibly.
HOW STUDENTS CURRENTLY USE AI
Today our students are immersed in a rapidly changing world shaped by AI technology. For example
- the use of predictive text on their smartphones
- personalised recommendations on platforms
- voice assistants like Siri and Alexa
- apps which can write answers to any questions
- automatically draw pictures
- create websites
- create videos
- write coding
- and so much more...
And this is just the beginning! It is impossible to escape AI and the way the world is rapidly changing; things will never be the same again, so it is our responsibility to ensure we teach our students how to use it safely, ethically and responsibly, helping them become aware of how it will most certainly change the landscape of their future lives and careers.
IS AI GOOD OR BAD FOR STUDENTS?
It's a tough one. On one hand, AI offers many benefits to students regarding their education, for example personalised learning experiences, increased productivity, enhanced engagement, improved academic outcomes, and extra support for diverse learning needs. However, there are also concerns about the ethical implications and potential drawbacks of AI in education. For example, it could infringe on student privacy, encourage laziness, negatively impact critical thinking and problem solving skills and affect their future career choices. Ultimately, whether AI is good or bad for students depends on how it is implemented, the ethical considerations taken into account, the extent to which it is used to support them without hindering them, how well students are prepared for the consequences and their future careers and lives.
HOW TO TALK TO STUDENTS ABOUT AI
The best way to talk to students about AI is through a combination of critical thinking discussions, and real-world examples. Encouraging students to ask questions, engage in discussions, and analyse case studies will help develop their critical thinking skills and encourage them to consider the ethical implications of AI technology. For example, you can discuss the possible consequences of the following real world AI examples:
- Facial recognition technology
- Predictive policing systems
- AI-powered medical diagnosis tools
- Personalized pricing algorithms
- AI-driven content creation tools
- AI-powered surveillance systems
- Autonomous vehicles
Providing relevant and relatable examples of AI applications in everyday life, helps students see the relevance of AI to their own experiences and also plan for ther future careers, many of which might look drastically different by the time they are ready to enter the workforce; they need to be prepared for it.
HOW TO TEACH STUDENTS TO USE AI ETHICALLY
Teaching students to use AI ethically and safely is crucial for preparing them to navigate the digital world responsibly. They should consider issues such as what is likely to happen if they rely on using AI to solve problems instead of thinking for themselves, and what kind of job are they likely to have in the future if AI is automating most things. This will help them learn to think critically about the consequences of their actions when using AI.
In order to consider ethics and safety, we need to teach students the following:
- Values: Teach students the importance of values like fairness, respect, and honesty when using AI technologies.
- Think Before You Click: Encourage students to pause and consider the potential impact of their actions when interacting with AI systems online.
- Question the Results: Train students to question and verify information generated by AI to ensure accuracy and avoid spreading misinformation.
- Respect Privacy: Emphasise the importance of respecting privacy rights and protecting personal data when using AI-powered devices and apps.
- Seek Help When Unsure: Encourage students to seek guidance from teachers or trusted adults when they encounter ethical dilemmas or safety concerns related to AI technology.
AI LESSON FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
If you are looking for a ready to go lesson for you to use in your classroom that covers all the above and more, then look no further! This Life Skills Education unit on Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape. As our world becomes increasingly influenced by AI technology, it's essential for students to understand its impact on their lives, both now and in the future. This resource explores the applications of AI in various fields, from education to employment, and encourages students to consider the ethical implications and potential consequences of its widespread adoption. By examining historical examples and discussing strategies for futureproofing their careers, students will gain insight into how they can thrive in an AI-driven world. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and supplementary materials, this lesson empowers students to critically evaluate the role of AI and VR in shaping their futures and humanity as a whole.
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| Resource includes: • 25 slides digital resource PowerPoint • 4 printable graphic organizer worksheets • 24 discussion cards Students will learn: • What AI is and what it can be used for • The pros and cons of AI in the present and future • How AI is affecting their ability to think for themselves • The effects AI will likely have on their future and careers • How students can prepare for an AI world and futureproof their careers • The effects of AI companions on mankind • The effects of Virtual Reality on mankind • …and more! |  |
CONCLUSION
I hope you find this resource helpful in making it easy to deliver engaging lessons on AI and its effects. As teachers, it's crucial that we prepare our students for the future by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of AI, as well as the unknown future that will unfold as AI develops. Download the AI Lesson for middle and high school students today and empower your students to thrive in an AI-powered world!
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