Source: MS CoPilot generated
As powerful, useful, and helpful as AI is, my thoughts are divided as to introducing it to K-12 students. It may be hypocritical to say teachers should use it, but withhold it from students.
Nearly 9 in 10 educators feel that students should be taught how AI works in a developmentally appropriate manner sometime before they graduate from high school, according to the survey.
Six percent of educators say that the topic shouldn’t be taught until the postsecondary levels and another 6 percent say that AI should never be taught. Most—65 percent—say it should be introduced to students in middle or high school. How young is too young to teach AI
Scientific Consensus
Wondering what the scientific consensus is on using technology and/or AI? I bet when you see this chart, you may be as surprised as I. The portion referring to technology seems spot on on but then…the AI column is suspicious to me.
Judge for yourself.
AI Generated: Scientific Consensus on Tech and AI use by Age
Incorporating the insights on AI education for children, the table below summarizes the scientific consensus on when and under what circumstances to introduce technology, including AI, to children across different age groups:
| Age Group | Screen Time Limits | Types of Technology | Educational Apps and Programs | AI Usage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-3 years | - No screen time for children under 18 months, except for video chatting. - For 18 to 24 months, high-quality programming with parental co-viewing. - Less than 1 hour per day for 2 to 5 years, with parental engagement[1][2][7][8]. |
- Tablets and smartphones for video chatting and co-viewing educational content[2][8]. | - High-quality, age-appropriate educational content with parental interaction[1][2]. | - Introduction to AI through simple, interactive tools like Google’s AI experiments. Encourage curiosity about AI in daily life[1][5]. |
| 4-6 years | - Limit to 1 hour per day of high-quality programs with parental co-viewing[2]. | - Tablets, smartphones, and computers for educational content and applications. Limit passive screen time. | - Educational apps that promote learning and creativity. Parent-child engagement in content. | - Experiment with block-based programming like Scratch to introduce coding and AI concepts. Participate in AI-themed camps or workshops[1][4]. |
| 7-10 years | - Consistent limits on time and types of media. Ensure media does not replace sleep, physical activity, and other behaviors[2]. | - Educational software on computers and tablets, monitored internet use. | - Content that aligns with school curriculum, promotes problem-solving and critical thinking. | - Explore AI through structured classes or online platforms like Udemy. Engage with AI-powered educational tools[3][4]. |
| 11-13 years | - Media-free times and locations. Monitor and discuss social media use[2][3]. | - Smartphones and computers for school work, limited social media under guidance[3]. | - Use learning platforms and resources online that support schoolwork and personal interests. | - Deepen understanding of AI through advanced programming and AI projects. Awareness of AI’s impact on privacy and safety[1][3]. |
| 14-18 years | - Encourage balance and self-regulation of screen time. Discuss impact on sleep, health, and social interactions[3]. | - Smartphones, computers, and tablets for educational purposes, responsible social media use. | - Educational tools for college preparation, online courses, and skill development. | - Engage in AI-related coding and project development. Explore AI’s role in future careers and ethical considerations[1][3]. |
This table integrates guidelines from authoritative sources and research findings, highlighting the importance of a balanced and mindful approach to technology and AI education across different developmental stages. It emphasizes the role of parental involvement, educational content, and the gradual introduction of AI concepts, coding, and ethical considerations as children grow older.
Sources [1] What is AI for Kids? An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence for Kids www.inspiritscholars.com/blog/what… [2] Artificial Intelligence education for young children: Why, what, and … www.sciencedirect.com/science/a… [3] How Will Artificial Intelligence (AI) Affect Children? www.healthychildren.org/English/f… [4] How to Introduce AI to Your Kids? - CircuitMess circuitmess.com/blogs/new… [5] An intro to AI, made for students - The Keyword blog.google/technolog… [6] 10 Simple Ways to Introduce AI to Elementary and Middle School … www.robotlab.com/blog/10-s… [7] Tips and Resources for Introducing Students to Artificial Intelligence www.edutopia.org/article/t… [8] Our children are growing up with AI. Here’s what you need to know www.weforum.org/agenda/20…