“At The York School, we’ve made intentional efforts to intelligently and purposefully integrate AI into our curriculum across all grade levels. From junior kindergarten to Grade 12, we’ve introduced AI concepts that align with each stage of our students’ learning journey,” says Justin Medved, associate head of academic innovation at The York School in Toronto.

For instance, in the junior school, students focus on building curiosity around how technology and AI work. In the middle and senior schools, students explore more complex AI concepts in subjects such as mathematics, computer science and even in the humanities, where AI tools like natural language processing assist in research projects and creative writing.

The school has also partnered with Flint K12, an organization specializing in AI education for kindergarten to Grade 12 schools with custom-built AI modules. “Through this partnership, our students gain hands-on experience with AI models, understanding machine learning algorithms and applying AI solutions to real-world problems,” Medved says. But they also learn about the ethics of AI. For example, its Theory of Knowledge course dives into discussions about bias in AI, data privacy and the societal impacts of automation.

“Incorporating AI into education is not just about preparing students for future careers; it’s about equipping them with the critical thinking skills they’ll need to navigate a world increasingly influenced by AI,” he says. “AI literacy is crucial for helping students understand how the technology they encounter every day works, its potential and, importantly, its limitations and potential for misuse.”

Content from The Globe and Mail Private Schools Report