Students in grades 3-5 are seeing AI in their daily lives. If students are watching someone at home using Netflix or Disney+, the shows these sites recommend for them are created with the help of AI algorithms. If they have any digital footprint at all, it is likely that their data is being used to provide data to algorithms that are trying to predict things they may want parents to purchase for them. There are also robots such as Loona and Miko that are marketed as "friendly companions" to students aged 5+. This "companionship" is accomplished via artificial intelligence.
The technology is amazing and awe-inspiring, but it is tech; these are neither companions, nor are they friends. They are computers simulating human connection.
We want to empower our students to respect this technology and to one day have the skills to use this technology to make a positive difference in the world. This starts by us modeling cautious curiosity and responsible computing. All of our students deserve to be welcomed into this space in a safe and careful way.
We hope these resources support you.
Sincerely,