Challenge:

The Parent-Teacher-Association in the school district wanted to encourage students to use their summer vacation to learn about modern digital technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and robotics. We are in the “Cognitive Era,” and AI (Artificial Intelligence) is not just a science fiction story anymore. It is already part of our everyday life and is already changing how business is done, healthcare is provided and countries are governed.

The World Economic Forum predicts 42% of jobs will require emerging technology skills such as AI by 2022. It is sometimes said that the best time to learn AI was 5 years ago. The second-best time is now.

However, the school district was not equipped to offer such courses and required a specialized partner who had the technology platform, instructors, and the content to deliver a course that could introduce students to the fundamentals of emerging technologies.

iZen Solution

iZen conducted a pilot program first and then a summer program for participating students from the school district. The program covered basic concepts of AI and various components, their applications, and career options. We also had several case study discussions and panel discussions with experts about what AI can do today and what is its future. We were able to impress upon students the need to learn about AI so that they can harness its power to do good, and to ensure that this power is not misused.

The highly engaging online, on-demand program was conducted over 4 weeks, and included the following components:

• Online sessions
• Workshops with live discussions
• Panel discussions
• Case studies

The program covered an introduction to the following topics:

• Concepts and elements of AI, ML, DL, NLP, Computer vision, and Robotics
• Applications of various areas of AI – future evolution of technology, and engaging topics like man vs machine

iZen Tools Used

• iZen’s LEAP (Learning Engagement and Access Program), which includes a robust LMS with various tools and training programs
• Custom designed 4-week course module for high school students

Results

The program was highly appreciated by both educators and parents, and kept the participating students engaged through the 4 weeks duration. Participation and involvement of students were high, and most participants expressed their interest in learning more about emerging technologies and their application in everyday life.