AI Curriculum - AI in Adult Education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is swiftly shaping the discussion about the future of work and society on an international scale. As a result, governments of single countries as well as the European Union (EU) have passed an AI-Strategy. Business leaders have already recognized how fundamentally AI may change the processes of their companies. However, disputes on the topic as well as the proactive shaping of AI has not reached the general public yet. Until now, the seemingly complex phenomenon AI, including its processes as well as chances and implementation of the technology, seem to be reserved for scientists, specialised experts and employers as well as students and companies that have a relation to the topic. Many other groups are not sufficiently informed. Scepticism or even fear towards the impact of AI on everyday lives at home and at work is common. The lack of knowledge about AI’s basic functions, its impact as well as opportunities and risks is a major challenge, despite the fact that AI is already implemented in every-days living and working environments. With the project „AI Curriculum for Adult Education“ (AIAE), a pan-European challenge is being addressed and above mentioned developments are being counteracted. As “Europe needs digitally smart people who are not only able to use but also to innovate and lead in using these technologies. Without it, Europe will not succeed in embracing this digital transformation. The acquisition of new skills is vital to keep pace with technological developments […]” (European Commission (2016): A new skills agenda for Europe, p. 7).With AIAE a curriculum for a basic AI course is being developed, aiming at adults that are employed or seek employment, and has a low threshold regardings its delivery. In order to take part, participants do not need to have any previous experience in the field of AI. Trainers in adult education strengthen their own digital skills and acquire knowledge within the topic of AI. When conducting the courses, they further function as multipliers and support course participants in developing their digital skills and gaining knowledge on the topic. This enables them to participate in public debates as well as shaping the implementation and usage of AI.As part of the project, the following aims are defined,▪identify relevant subject areas,▪develop appropriate learning goals,▪conceptualise the curriculum for every topic,▪design the course structure,▪develop all teaching materials▪and train educational institutions from every member state represented in the project to use the curriculum.The AI curriculum will be published online with a free license and can thus be used by all adult education institutions for further and advanced trainings.