New Resource Offers Guide to AI Instruction Across Grades PreK-12

The School Library Systems Association of New York has created a free resource for PreK-12 educators on building student understanding of artificial intelligence. Developed by an interdisciplinary team of educators and AI specialists as part of the LibraryReady.AI project with support from the Allison-Rosen Foundation, "AI Scope and Sequence" offers a curriculum framework designed to "empower students with essential skills in AI literacy, critical thinking, and information seeking practices, the organization explained in a news announcement.

The document is organized into four "strands" representing the intersection of computer science, media literacy, and information fluency:

  • Why AI: The Evolution and Integration of AI into the World and My Life;
  • How AI Works: Technical Aspects and Functionality of AI;
  • AI in Society: Ethics and Other Questions About AI; and
  • AI in Practice: Being a Productive and Responsible User.

Each strand is divided into individual topics, with concept statements for each grade band (PreK-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12) as well as highlighted priority concepts and recommended starting points. Topics range from recognizing smart tools to critically assessing algorithmic bias.

"This initiative equips educators and librarians with the tools they need to introduce AI literacy effectively," said project lead Christopher Harris, director of the School Library System for Genesee Valley BOCES, in a statement. "By providing students with the skills to navigate an AI-driven world, we are preparing the next generation to be informed and ethical digital citizens. It is important that schools teach not just with AI, but about AI. We cannot abdicate our responsibility to prepare students for an AI-driven future."

"As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it is essential for students to understand how it works, its societal impacts, and how to use AI tools safely and responsibly," commented Natalie Bazarova, a project advisor and AI expert from Cornell University. "These technologies are now a part of our everyday lives, making it important to learn about AI in the context of real-world applications. New tools present both risks and opportunities, and combining AI literacy with critical thinking and information literacy will empower young people to be more adept at using AI technologies in mindful and productive ways."

The document is available for download on the LibraryReady.AI project site.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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