Welcome To Teaching AI
Starting In (Pre)K-2nd Grade

Just as we lay the foundations of learning for reading, math, and other subjects starting with our littlest learners, we should also lay the foundations for computer science. 

Artificial Intelligence is a specialized field within computer science which makes computer science classes and lessons a good place to begin laying the foundations about AI but not the only place.

Within the field of AI, Machine Learning, and within Machine Learning, Deep Learning are ways that computers can learn. Large Language Models fit within Deep Learning though Deep Learning includes more than LLMs. 

We need to start with WHAT AI is and WHERE it currently is in our students' lives. Even our littlest learners are likely interacting with and likely training AI in their daily lives. They need to be aware of this.

Learning HOW AI works will help our students to make better decisions about AI and when to use it and perhaps even more importantly when not to use it.

The AI4K12 Initiative identified the 5 Big Ideas of AI. These 5 big ideas were used as a framework for the K-12 guidelines that identify what K-12 students should know and be able to do with AI. These 5 big ideas are not necessarily the way AI practitioners view the field, but are appropriate for the needs of the K-12 audience. 

AI can do four main things: 

• Understand its environment (Perception)

• Learn new knowledge and skills (Machine Learning)

• Plan and make decisions (Representation and Reasoning)

• Interact with humans and the environment (Natural Interaction) 

The list above is four of the 5 Big Ideas of AI. The fifth idea is the impact of AI on people (Societal Impact).