Artificial intelligence is already so integrated into children’s lives, they can’t even think of it as a separate concept from “internet” or “computer”. It’s their digital minion, their planning partner, an encyclopedia, a creative tool, and a homework assistant. Since we know that children of all ages are using AI, it falls on parents to make sure they are aware of both the benefits and risks.
How young children can use AI in elementary school.
Young children are typically introduced to AI through age-appropriate educational games, interactive apps, and learning platforms that use AI to personalize content. These games and platforms can use a chatbot or virtual tutor to guide students adaptively through lessons. And when they take standardized tests at school, those tests are likely to be adaptive, meaning they use AI to tailor students’ test questions to the most difficult level based on prior answers.
As Leticia Barra middle school computer science teacher and technology, education, and parenting blogger, said AI image generators (used with supervision) can help kids see things that exist only in their imaginations. .
“AI tech can boost creativity and imagination. Illustrators, for example, can translate text-based ideas into conceptual and increasingly realistic images and artistic visions with any level of creativity. can bridge,” Barr said.
You can help kids embrace the ubiquity of AI technology by letting them know when a modern computer process is creating something personalized for them, even on something like YouTube or TikTok. Uses algorithms to generate videos to be displayed. Explain that these processes would normally have been performed by humans before AI programming was developed. Help them understand the difference between human thinking and the programmed process of collecting input and reproducing information or actions in a way that is human-like.
Tweens and AI
As homework and independent study become a bigger deal, tweens are more likely to use AI for on-demand homework help, Barr said. In the middle years, their research becomes more complex, and they may use AI to synthesize ideas or explain concepts.
“The most effective way for students to use AI as a tool for their schoolwork is as an explanation machine, as opposed to an answer machine,” Barr said.
It reminds me of the early days of Wikipedia. We were warning students from middle school through college to never trust him. Over the past 20 years, we’ve come to accept Wikipedia as a way to get a quick understanding of a topic (with the caveat that serious fact-checking is necessary before incorporating that understanding into your paper).
Children of this age will be learning to code on their own. They’re not just using AI as a tool to teach or entertain, they’re driving AI into their contributions to technology.
As tweens begin to think of themselves as digital citizens, it’s a good time to emphasize privacy, security, and the impact of AI on society. Reiterate that they should never share personal, identifying information online, even with friendly chatbots. Pay attention to what platforms or apps they’re using to access AI, and help them differentiate between age-appropriate and inappropriate resources.
Risks and benefits of AI for teenagers
Adolescents are most vulnerable to misuse or experiencing adverse consequences of AI. Both teachers and parents are worried about artificially generated reports and AI-driven cheating with access to chatbots during essays or tests.
“I would be wary of trying to use any GenAI tools, like ChatGPT, for everything because it’s just a chatbot that simulates a real conversation with a human,” Barr said. “It can be misleading or deceptive. It’s better to teach children how to find and use AI tools designed for specific purposes, such as image or voice generators, learning apps, etc.”
Teenagers are also victims of bullying based on AI-generated images, which can be difficult to detect. The more social media young people use, the more likely they are to encounter AI-generated content.
Focus your conversation about AI on ethics and skepticism. Emphasize that it is unethical to use AI to misrepresent their understanding of a scientific concept or misrepresent reality. Remind teens that anything produced by AI—whether it’s funny photos on social media or descriptions of the Cold War—must be fact-checked.
“With any technology comes risks and rewards,” Barr said. “One risk students should be aware of is that AI chatbots can often provide false information, and not all AI is intended for educational purposes. If children want to use AI for their schoolwork, they should not have an AI. There is a need to use platforms that are specifically designed for education and deliver high-quality learning experiences through purpose-built AI.”
Totally demonizing AI because of the risks will deprive young people of many of its benefits. Remind teens of all the ethical and constructive ways AI can make their lives easier if used responsibly:
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To collect study material and create flashcards and quizzes.
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Developing a study plan based on their course load and available time.
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To help them work toward a goal like completing college applications or learning a new language.
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To learn more in depth about their interests and hobbies.
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To enhance their creativity by making pictures, music, or videos.
“Since students don’t always know how to start studying for a test or exam, AI can help guide them and get better organized,” Barr said.
At any age, using AI should be a collaborative effort between children, parents, and (human) educators.
“By working together, kids can learn how to find the right AI tools to help them gather information, gain deeper understanding, or organize their learning,” Barr said. “For example, there are AI apps that can help students organize their thoughts before writing an essay. AI tools help students understand writing prompts, then brainstorm and create an outline. AI can also help students plan test prep study sessions to better manage their learning.”
To learn more about helping your child navigate the world of AI, check out these resources:
Credit : lifehacker.com
