AI (artificial intelligence) refers to the ability of machines and computer systems to replicate human-like cognitive functions, such as learning, problem-solving, decision-making, and using algorithms and data.
Ethical, responsible, and safe use of AI in K-12 education requires a human-centered approach that prioritizes meaningful learning experiences. If applied thoughtfully, the integration of AI has the potential to enrich education systems by streamlining administrative tasks, increasing efficiency, and freeing up time for student-centered activities. While AI can act as a complementary tool, adding richness and depth to classroom practice, the choice regarding the use of AI in the classroom is ultimately made by teachers based on the needs of their students.
Education is inherently relational, especially when it emphasizes the irreplaceable and essential role of human relationships in the learning process. While AI can provide valuable support, ongoing human interaction remains essential to foster meaningful relationships between teachers and students, and within the school community. AI tools should therefore be seen as a complement to human processes.
The following materials have been developed in collaboration with key partners in the BC education sector. Materials are provided to help school boards, district leaders, school leaders, teachers and support staff develop local procedures and policies. Additionally, these materials will assist teachers in teaching AI concepts and related digital literacy skills in the classroom. Additionally, resources have been created to help parents and guardians better understand the role AI plays in their children's education and outline digital literacy skills they can cultivate at home if their children are using AI tools. Additionally, student posters have been developed to support the responsible and safe use of AI in student learning activities.
Resources for school boards, district leaders, principals, teachers, and staff
The document, “Considerations for Using AI Tools in K-12 Schools,” details several factors that districts and schools should carefully consider to ensure they have local procedures and policies for the effective, safe, and equitable adoption of AI tools.
“AI Terms You Need to Know” is a plain language glossary developed to support collective learning of new terms and better aid in decision making.
Students need to learn about AI, digital literacy, and its applications that will benefit them both in and out of school. The “Curriculum Connections: Digital Literacy and Use of AI” document provides links to AI-related learning opportunities embedded in the Applied Design, Skills, and Technology (ADST) and Career Education curricula, as well as connections to core competencies.
The following AI-related teaching and learning stories were created by educators working in a variety of classrooms across the state. These stories provide concrete examples of how AI-related learning and the development of AI-related digital literacy skills are happening across different grade levels and learning areas.
- ADST 3-5 Teaching and Learning Stories – What is AI, how can it be used, and what to watch out for (PDF, 501 KB)
- ADST 8 Stories of Teaching and Learning – What is AI and the Ethical Use of AI (PDF, 1.6MB)
- ADST 12 Teaching and Learning Stories – Digital Email Marketing with AI Content (PDF, 764 KB)
- Anatomy and Physiology 12 Teaching and Learning Stories – Heart Diagram (PDF, 391KB)
- Arts Education 10-12 Teaching and Learning Stories – Redesigning for Reconciliation (PDF, 1.2MB)
- Arts Education and ELA 10-12 Teaching and Learning Stories – Integrating AI into the Arts (PDF, 1.3MB)
- BCFP 12 Teaching and Learning Stories – Ethics of Generating AI Imagery of BC First Nations and Local Indigenous Art (PDF, 857KB)
- ELA 9 Teaching and Learning Stories – AI Stories – The Good, the Bad and the Illusions (PDF, 346 KB)
- Math 9 Teaching and Learning Stories – Exploring AI and Avoiding Bias (PDF, 395 KB)
- Media Design 10 Stories of Teaching and Learning – Identifying Bias in AI Text-Generated Images (PDF, 1.44MB)
- Science 3-4 Teaching and Learning Stories – Exploring the Movements of the Earth, Moon, and Sun (PDF, 680KB)
- Social Studies 4-5 Teaching and Learning Stories – Can AI Help Write Land Acknowledgements (PDF, 550 KB)
- Web Development 10 Teaching and Learning Stories – Accelerating Website Development with AI Content Unit (PDF, 967 KB)
- More stories about teaching and learning coming soon
Three posters, “Infographics on Considerations when Using AI Posters,” have been developed to help teachers enhance student learning in the areas of AI-related learning and digital literacy skills development in the classroom.
A two-page information sheet, “Information for Parents and Carers: All About Artificial Intelligence,” has been created that teachers can distribute to families, to support parents and carers in understanding the nature of AI and developing their children's digital literacy skills.
The three “What You Need to Know About AI – Student Posters” below provide students with valuable guidance on using AI tools responsibly, ethically, and safely in their learning.
Parent Resources
The document, “Information for Parents and Carers: All about Artificial Intelligence,” provides parents and caregivers with key information about AI and explains how to develop digital literacy skills in children so they can use AI tools responsibly, ethically and safely.
The three “What You Need to Know About AI – Student Posters” below provide students with valuable guidance on using AI tools responsibly, ethically, and safely in their learning.
“AI Terms You Need to Know” is an easy-to-read glossary of commonly used AI terms. This document was created for school leaders and teachers, although parents and caregivers may also find this information useful.
