AI Courses To Be Introduced From Class 6 In Schools (image:unsplash.com)
As a part of addressing India”s growing demand for AI and data science, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology decided to begin artificial intelligence courses into the education system. And they are planning to introduce into the school curriculum from Class 6.
As a part of the ‘National Program on Artificial Intelligence (NPAI) Skilling Framework’, a committee has developed a comprehensive framework for these courses, so students in the country are prepared for AI education. Considering the significance of ethics in AI education, the committee proposes at least 10% of the course duration be focused on ethical aspects. Its aim is to make sure that AI systems are advanced and used stressing on fairness, transparency, and privacy.
In order to follow the fast moving space of AI, flexibility in curating courses need to prioritised. Thereby, the report favours the advancement of smaller modules keeping pace with technological developments.
Besides, regulatory bodies such as the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and University Grants Commission (UGC) are being asked to formulate guidelines and standards for AI education. UGC”s report in this regard can be accessed through its website, www.ugc.gov.in.
It was in response to a recent NASSCOM report, integrating AI courses at school education and in undergraduate programmes has been initiated. The report highlighted a skills gap wherein it denoted 51% deficit in the demand and supply of AI and disruptive technology skills. The school curriculum also preferred to be age-appropriate, focusing fundamental AI concepts, machine learning, data handling, programming, and ethics.
Furthermore, report suggested faculty development programmes to improve teachers” understanding of AI concepts as well as teaching methodologies.
(With inputs from NDTV)
