By the end of AI 101 — What Counts as Artificial Intelligence?, you will be able to:
Spot authentic AI in any education technology product and articulate the evidence that makes it AI (or not).
Describe—in age‑appropriate language—how data feeds into models to generate predictive outputs.
Differentiate among the three dominant classroom AI archetypes: pattern‑recognition systems, natural‑language models, and generative models.
Assess at least two opportunities and two risks of using AI tools versus simple automation in your own context.
Produce and share a concise Mini‑Audit that demystifies a tool you already use, adding immediate value to colleagues and students.
These outcomes move you beyond buzzwords to actionable diagnostic habits, giving you the confidence to lead informed conversations about AI in education.
-
Module 1 · Where’s the AI?
-
1.1 Is It Really AI?
Think you know AI when you see it? This eye-opening video reveals why most "AI-powered" claims are just clever marketing, and teaches you the simple three-step process that every real AI system follows.
-
1.2 AI or Not?
Time to test your AI detection skills! Sort popular classroom tools into AI or Not AI categories and discover which ones are actually learning from data versus just following programmed rules.
-
1.3 Reflect: What Surprised You?
That "smart" gradebook might not be so smart after all. Share your biggest AI misconception to build better tech evaluation instincts.
-
-
Module 2 · How AI Actually Works
-
2.1 How AI Learns
Peek inside the AI engine! This interactive journey through the data pipeline shows exactly how machines transform raw information into predictions—no computer science degree required.
-
2.2 Train Your Paper AI
Become an AI trainer using just paper and pencil. Experience firsthand why learning beats rules when handling real-world messiness, then see how your fruit-sorting exercise mirrors billion-dollar AI systems.
-
2.3 Checkpoint Quiz: Data, Model, Output
Lock in your understanding of AI fundamentals with this quick checkpoint. These eight questions ensure you're ready to spot bias and evaluate real classroom tools.
-
2.4 Where Could Bias Sneak In?
Every AI pipeline has weak spots where bias creeps in. Learn to spot these vulnerabilities and craft the critical questions that protect your students from algorithmic unfairness.
-
-
Module 3 · Spotting Imposters
-
3.1 Spot the Impostor
Can you tell revolutionary AI from recycled automation? Practice on three realistic vendor pitches, learning to decode marketing speak and identify authentic machine learning.
-
3.2 Reflect: Watch for Red Flags
That phrase that almost fooled you? Let's make sure it never does again. Capture your personal red flag and help build a community defence against AI hype.
-
-
Module 4 · Classroom Mini‑Audit
-
4.1 Mini‑Audit Template
See how a pro evaluates EdTech AI claims in under 5 minutes. Follow along with a real classroom tool audit that you can replicate immediately.
-
4.2 Reflect: How Will You Explain This?
The ultimate test of understanding: Can you explain your tool's AI (or lack thereof) to a middle schooler? Craft one crystal-clear sentence, help a peer improve theirs, and earn your course completion certificate.
-