More AI and less screen time: How UAE schools are introducing the latest technology to pupils
Schools in the UAE are introducing artificial intelligence into lessons while also trying to avoid increasing pupils’ screen time after an AI curriculum was approved this month. The curriculum will apply to public and private schools with lessons set to cover data, algorithms, applications, risks and the ethical use of technology. The government also plans to train 22,000 teachers and educators…
The UAE is embracing artificial intelligence in schools, despite concerns over increasing pupils' screen time. A newly approved AI curriculum covers data, algorithms, applications, risks, and ethical use of technology. The government plans to train 22,000 teachers to use AI in teaching and lesson planning. Early-years pupils at schools like Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi are introduced to AI through an unplugged programme, focusing on play, critical thinking, and basic ideas like the differences between humans and machines.
Jamie Efford, elementary principal and AI lead at Dubai Schools Al Khawaneej, noted that early AI literacy can begin in kindergarten through stories, play, sorting, discussion, and understanding AI creation by humans and following machine instructions. The aim is to teach pupils how to question AI, not just use it as another digital skill.
Gems Education also takes a cautious approach to younger children, emphasizing teacher-led awareness and analysis rather than independent generative AI use. The goal is to ensure pupils learn about AI without becoming dependent on it, focusing on "think first, use AI with purpose, and check carefully." Teachers are prioritized for training before AI becomes more widely used in lessons, with a focus on bias, privacy, attribution, and recognizing when AI should not be used.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
