SaskCode currently has little or no focus on Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning at any level. This is not surprising considering the goals of the organization, but may be a significant omission. At least two opportunities for the use of these concepts may fit within the SaskCode mandate:
Principles of Machine Learning - while the technology that underlies the mechanics of machine learning go beyond most people, let alone K-12 students, the principles that are used in training AI may become more important over time as custom Chatbots and Computer Vision applications become more mainstream. A student may someday soon find themselves training an AI for a specific application related to their business, such as distinguishing between crops and weeds through a live camera feed.
Using AI to generate code - while the goal of many lessons in coding involves planning and writing code for Arduino or Microbit, current Chatbots could provide classes with limited time a leg up in learning to code. ChatGPT seems to be very well versed in numerous programming languages, and while there may be lots to criticize in its code, it may be able to generate a good start.
SaskCode appears to have very few peer equivalents in other provinces with similar mandates. Most programs appear to be very localized, and do not venture from Science Centers in major cities. Most do not have an open philosophy, and most do not focus on professional development. SaskCode could provide a model for organizations looking to build curriculum aligned resources for computational thinking in other juristictions.
One area that appears to be limited on many lesson plans is the area of assessment. This is certainly an area that is challenging for teachers new to the subject as it is difficult to know what to expect from an average student. What is a reasonable outcome given a certain amount of time? On what basis should coding be judged? Should the results be judged, or the reflection on skills learned?
These are areas that may create a barrier for teachers looking to include these lesson plans in class.