CONNECT 2024

Join this session to explore the whys and hows of integrating the new Computer Science organizing idea into teaching and learning in grades K-3. Leave more confident about what the curriculum is actually asking us to do, what computational thinking is really all about, how you’re doing much of it already, and how (through shared samples, strategies, and practical support resources) we can all create engaging classroom activities that best prepare our students not only for what’s next, but also for what’s now - fun non-tech body coding, tech activities with little robots, and more!

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into educational practices, system leaders must grapple with its rapid development and potential to disrupt teaching and learning. In this session, we will explore the AI landscape and consider whether this technological shift is genuinely transformative or simply the latest in a series of educational fads. We’ll discuss key AI tools and their potential role in personalizing learning, automating administrative tasks, and enhancing adaptability in educational environments. Attendees will engage with critical scenarios and debates surrounding the responsible use of AI, reflecting on ethical concerns like privacy, surveillance, and bias. By examining the balance between embracing AI and preserving human agency, participants will gain insight into strategies for leveraging AI to enhance both teaching practices and student learning experiences. Key takeaways include practical considerations for system leaders, the potential pitfalls of AI (from misinformation to privacy risks), and actionable strategies for integrating AI tools in ways that align with human-centered educational values.

Audience: K-12 administrators, instructional leaders, and policymakers looking to understand AI's role in education and develop ethical, forward-thinking policies for its use in their schools. 

Please bring a charged device.