Kerala Introduces Artificial Intelligence Learning in School Textbooks

In a pioneering move, the state of Kerala has introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning in the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) textbook for Class 7 students. This initiative aims to familiarize over 4 lakh students with AI in the upcoming academic year, marking a significant step towards enhancing technological education in the state.

Hands-on AI Experience: Computer Vision and Facial Recognition

In the ‘Computer Vision’ chapter, students will have the opportunity to create an AI program capable of recognizing up to seven human facial expressions. This hands-on experience will provide them with a practical understanding of AI applications.

Uniform AI Learning: A First in India

Kerala’s decision to incorporate AI learning uniformly for all students in a class is the first instance in India, highlighting the state’s commitment to preparing its youth for the digital age.

New ICT Textbooks: Multilingual Approach

New ICT textbooks for Classes 1, 3, 5, and 7 will be made available in Malayalam, English, Tamil, and Kannada, ensuring accessibility to students across different linguistic backgrounds.

Curriculum Framework: Emphasis on Critical Thinking and Programming Skills

The curriculum framework places emphasis on developing critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and programming skills. This holistic approach aims to equip students with essential skills for the future.

Mandatory ICT Education and Learning Tools

ICT education is compulsory for students from Classes 1 to 10 in Kerala. The textbooks introduce students to the PictoBlox package and Scratch software, enabling them to practice programming, AI, robotics, and more.

KITE: Providing Essential Software and Infrastructure

The Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE), the technology arm of the Department of General Education, will provide all the essential software for AI learning on the laptops deployed in schools.

FOSS-Based Applications and KITE-Developed Programs

The ICT textbooks for Classes 1 and 3 will include Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) educational applications, while KITE-developed applications like Traffic Signal and Waste Challenge will be part of the curriculum.

Language Labs and Teacher Training

The new textbooks will feature language labs to aid language learning, and training for all primary school teachers on the new ICT textbooks will commence in June 2024.

Future Rollout: Expanding to Higher Classes

New ICT textbooks for Classes 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 10 will be introduced in the next academic year, further strengthening the state’s commitment to technological education.

Kerala’s proactive approach to integrating AI learning into the school curriculum is a commendable step towards equipping its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Static GK:

• Kerala Capital: Thiruvananthapuram;
• Kerala Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan;
• Kerala Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan.