In a move aimed at enhancing educators' understanding and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms, Common Sense Media and OpenAI have introduced a free training course entitled "ChatGPT Foundations for K-12 Educators." This programme is designed specifically for teachers, providing them with essential knowledge about AI, while also addressing important aspects such as student safety and privacy.

The course, which is available to all educators and school districts at no cost, consists of eight lessons totalling one hour of content. Participants will cover fundamental AI concepts, ethical guidelines for usage, and practical strategies for integrating AI into their daily teaching practices. Robbie Torney, Senior Director of AI Programs at Common Sense, remarked on the course's timely relevance, stating, “Schools across the country are grappling with new opportunities and challenges as AI reshapes education, with our research showing that seven in 10 students are already using tools like ChatGPT for their schoolwork.”

Having undergone pilot tests in various school districts such as Agua Fria Union High School District and the Challenger School, the course has yielded promising early outcomes. Leah Belsky, Vice President and General Manager of Education at OpenAI, emphasised the collaborative effort required for successful AI adoption in K-12 education, stating, “We’re in the early stages of AI adoption in K-12, and it will take all of us–educators, technologists, and organizations–working together to ensure this technology enables teachers and improves learning outcomes for students.” She further highlighted the importance of providing educators with resources to responsibly engage with OpenAI’s tools.

The launch of this training course represents the initial milestone in an expanded partnership between Common Sense and OpenAI, which was announced in January 2024. This collaboration aims to develop comprehensive AI guidelines and educational materials tailored for educators, parents, and students.

Educators interested in the course can access it at commonsense.org/education/training/chatgpt-k12-foundations. For further details regarding Common Sense's initiatives in AI, visits can be made to www.commonsense.org/ai.

Source: Noah Wire Services