Advancing AI Literacy for Families and Schools
in Ohio
As digital advancements shape our world, AI literacy has become essential, especially in educational environments and for families. Ohio, with its diverse communities and robust network of schools and higher education institutions, is well-positioned to lead in integrating AI literacy into community and school curricula. This project addresses the knowledge gap by creating accessible, comprehensive AI literacy programs for educators and families across the state. Given AI's impact on daily life, Ohioans need tools to understand, evaluate, and responsibly engage with AI systems. Our initiative aims to establish a sustainable foundation for AI literacy, ensuring that all community members, regardless of background, are prepared to thrive in an AI-driven world. By fostering informed digital citizenship, this project seeks to enhance educational outcomes and equip Ohio's communities for the future.
This initiative will also serve as a proof of concept for CETE's new AI in Education program area, establishing a research and development domain that promises enduring impact. These initial funds are vital to launching AI in Education, enabling us to secure further funding and develop a sustainable resource that will benefit not only Ohio but communities nationwide.
VR Experience Station
Our VR table allows parents and students to engage directly with Meta Quest 3 enhanced by AI. Using VirtualSpeech, families experience how AI can support effective communication between home and school. This immersive environment enables both parents and teachers to practice virtual meetings, fostering empathy, enhancing communication accuracy, and building a stronger foundation for family-school partnerships.
Parent Workshop
Our workshop introduces parents to foundational AI concepts, focusing on familiarizing them with AI terminology and the basics of generative AI. Participants practice using AI tools on their smartphones, gain insight into the role of AI in everyday life, and explore ethical considerations for children's interactions with AI technologies. The workshop equips parents to support their children's understanding of AI in a safe and informed way.
Teacher Professional Development
Designed to build on educators' existing knowledge, our teacher PD program covers foundational AI and generative AI concepts, including hands-on practice with AI tools accessible on their computers. Teachers also explore ethical considerations around children's engagement with AI, ensuring they are prepared to guide students in responsible and ethical AI use in and outside the classroom.
Presentation
Xu, F., & Owens, W. (2024, September 20). Artificial Intelligence (AI): A
tool for teachers that saves time & builds partnerships with families. The
fifth annual Ohio Family Engagement Leadership Summit, Columbus, OH.
Pre-Session Thoughts about AI
Post-Session Thoughts about AI
Our Team
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Fan Xu
Learning Technology Expert
Dr. Ana-Paula Correia
Family Engagement Expert
Dr. Barbara Boone
Learning Coordinator
Dr. Barbara Boone
Project Manager
Dr. Barbara Boone
This material is based upon work supported by Seed Funds to establish an Artificial Intelligence Literacy for Families and Schools Project under the Family Engagement program area at the Center on Education and Training for Employment (CETE). Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of CETE.
Copyright 2024 Fan Xu. All Rights Reserved.