Learning How to Learn (About AI)

AI Literacy for Educators: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let's face it: AI can feel like a new language in education. But here's the good news: we are pros at navigating new territory. We already possess a powerful toolkit of teaching skills—critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to break down complex concepts. These skills are the key to unlocking AI literacy.

Developing this literacy isn't just for us—it's crucial for our students, too. In an AI-powered world, equipping them with critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy is essential. AI literacy allows us to harness AI's potential as a powerful tool in the classroom while mitigating potential drawbacks.

This article offers a practical approach to remind us as educators, that we can ALL learn about AI at our own pace. This framework should be familiar and can help you learn. Remember, the educator community is in this together. Connect with colleagues, explore professional development opportunities, and advocate for support structures when needed. By working collaboratively, we can ensure educators and students thrive in the evolving world of AI.

The KWL Chart: Your Secret Weapon

Educators understand the importance of activating prior knowledge before introducing new concepts. This is where the KWL Chart comes in—a powerful tool you likely use with your students. The KWL Chart helps us bridge the gap between what we already know and what we want to learn. Let's adapt this strategy for our own AI learning journey.

Before diving into resources, take a moment to reflect on what you already know about AI. You might be surprised!

Step 1: Uncover Your Hidden AI Knowledge

Think about how you introduce new concepts to your students. Instead of direct instruction, you often guide them to connect new information to their existing knowledge. This is what we'll do with AI.

• K: What do you KNOW about AI??List anything that comes to mind – facts, experiences, concepts, even areas of confusion. Don't be afraid to brainstorm using words, drawings, or diagrams. As educators, you likely have a foundation in something associated with AI: bias, ethics, algorithms, data patterns, tools, and adaptive learning technologies. Recognizing your existing knowledge creates a framework for understanding new information.

Make sure to record what you know. We must highlight this and remind ourselves that we are NOT starting at ground zero.

Step 2: Charting Your Course – What Do You Want to Learn?

Now that you've unearthed your hidden AI knowledge, it's time to set some goals! This is the W in the KWL. When setting goals, consider critical aspects of AI literacy, such as understanding how AI processes data, evaluating AI-generated outputs, and the ethical implications of using AI tools. Having clear goals will help you choose the right resources.

W: What do you WANT to know about AI?

Make sure you write these questions on your chart. You can also explore more about things you already know and uncover new connections. Here are some suggestions:

• AI Applications:?How might AI enhance teaching and learning in your subject area(s)?
• Specific Interests:?What AI applications (e.g., personalized learning, assessment, accessibility tools) are you most curious about?
• Ethical Concerns:?What are your priorities for addressing AI's ethical implications, such as bias, privacy, and environmental impact?
• Inner Workings: How does AI work? Why is it important for me to know this?
• What is in it for me? How can knowing about AI help me in class or in my personal life?

Having clear and personalized goals will help you choose the right resources to support your AI learning journey. Remember, there are no wrong questions!

Step 3: Building Your AI Toolkit – Exploring Resources

The great news is there's a ton of AI information – books, videos, courses, you name it! But remember, quality is key. Prioritize resources explicitly created for educators by educators or AI experts. Be wary of materials that primarily push products for profit.

• Look for resources that provide hands-on AI learning experiences and guidance on using AI responsibly, like the TeachAI Toolkit.
• Look for credible sources that align with your learning goals. Here are a few to get you started:?Datacamp: What is AI Literacy;?TeachAI, Office of Educational Technology
• Take some Interactive Courses: Elements of AI (offered for free at?https://course.elementsofai.com/) This course blends text, quizzes, and interactive elements, breaking down AI concepts in a beginner-friendly way.
• Join groups like ISTE's AI Exploration PLN (https://sites.google.com/docs.iste.org/isteaiandstemnetwork/resources/online-course-and-pln) or attend a webinar focusing on AI in the classroom.
• Leverage your "teacher mindset" to analyze materials effectively and assess your understanding.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different learning styles – some of us learn best by reading, while others prefer videos or interactive courses.

Here's where we add the L, Log what you LEARN about AI:

After engaging with a resource (reading a chapter, watching a video, etc.), take some time to record your key takeaways. This could be a simple bulleted list, a mind map, or even a short reflection on how the new information connects to your existing knowledge. Regularly revisit your KWL chart to assess your progress and identify further areas you want to explore. This ongoing process helps solidify your understanding and ensures you're making the most of your AI learning journey.

Step 4: Integrate AI Literacy 'Across the Curriculum'

Learning doesn't have to be so serious! Embrace the opportunity to play and explore as you learn about AI. Connect your AI learning to your hobbies and passions! You can use the KWL Chart to discover how AI can enhance your interests. Here's how:

• Think Like an AI Explorer:?Just like you encourage curiosity in your students, embrace your own! Use your newfound AI knowledge to explore your passions and hobbies. Is there an AI-powered tool that could enhance your photography, writing, or music creation?
• Critical Thinking in Action:?Apply your critical thinking skills as you engage with AI daily. Can you identify potential biases in an AI-powered news feed? How can you ensure your online interactions are secure and private in an AI-driven world?

Rather than treating AI literacy as a standalone topic you need to learn about for school, integrate it across your other hobbies so that you can play while you learn.?

Step 5: Become an AI Advocate:?

Share your AI knowledge with friends, family, and the community. Help others understand AI's potential while fostering responsible use.

Connect with other educators to share successful strategies for promoting AI literacy. Create opportunities to learn from each other's experiences integrating AI concepts and applications into the classroom.

Remember:

• Learning is a journey, not a race. Embrace a growth mindset and learn from setbacks.
• There's no single "right" way to learn AI. Explore different resources and find what works for you.
• You are not alone! As educators, we have unique skills to approach this new frontier.

You'll become an AI-literate educator by following these steps and leveraging your teaching expertise. This will empower you to design a curriculum that equips students with the knowledge and skills to engage productively and responsibly with AI technologies transforming our society.