NCERT introduces 20-hour AI module for classes 9-12, covers deepfakes and data privacy

NCERT has introduced a 20-hour AI and computational thinking module for Classes 9-12, aligned with NEP 2020 and developed with experts from IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur. The five-unit curriculum covers machine learning, deepfakes, AI hallucinations, digital safety and effective prompting.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has launched a 20-hour course on computational thinking (CT) and artificial intelligence (AI) for students in grades 9 to 12. The activity-based learning resource was developed by experts from IIT Madras, IIT Jodhpur and NCERT to help students grasp the concept of AI, its pros and cons, and the responsible use of the technology.

The module is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is intended for students who are not familiar with AI. The curriculum emphasises hands-on activities, class discussions, and problem-solving, said NCERT's news release on Friday. It's about commonplace uses of AI, machine learning, deepfakes, data privacy, misinformation and good prompting.

NCERT AI Module: Five units explained

The module consists of five units which introduce to students the concepts of AI in real examples and hands-on activities.

Unit 1 takes a look at how AI is applied in everyday life, such as predictive keyboard functions on smartphones and how AI helps deliver music recommendations. The second details the process of teaching computers to learn by example. Students will be able to train image classifiers and test their capabilities to develop the understanding of the effect of training data on AI performance.

The third unit, titled When AI Gets It Wrong, examines misinformation, deepfakes and AI hallucinations. In addition, it brings a five-step approach to checking information before taking it on board or sharing it.

The NCERT also warns students not to enter into AI tools with sensitive details like Aadhaar and PAN numbers, passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs), or personal documents.

Pragya Singha Roy