What Should We Do in the Era of Artificial Intelligence?
On August 31, 2025, the Shandong Provincial Department of Education issued the “Implementation Opinions on the ‘Ten Actions’ for Artificial Intelligence Education in Primary and Secondary Schools.” Faced with the provincial government’s introduction of the ‘Ten Actions’ for artificial intelligence education in primary and secondary schools, how should grassroots schools in southwestern Shandong respond? We cannot wait and see, nor can we blindly follow trends; we must be pragmatic and take it step by step. Based on our local situation, I believe we can implement the following specific measures: 1. Start the classes, not seeking quantity but practicality
Many schools currently lack specialized teachers and equipment, making it unrealistic to forcefully implement “high-end” artificial intelligence courses. It is recommended to integrate artificial intelligence content into existing information technology, science, and mathematics classes. For example, teaching the basics of algorithms in mathematics, introducing intelligent sensor applications in science, and adding graphical programming modules in information technology classes. Each semester should ensure at least 4-6 class hours related to general education in artificial intelligence. After-school services could consider establishing an “AI Enlightenment Club” to organize interest activities using existing computers and free online resources. 2. Integrate and reassign teachers, learning while teaching
While there is a shortage of specialized teachers, we can form an artificial intelligence teaching team by selecting teachers with a certain foundation from mathematics, information technology, and science subjects. They can quickly enhance their capabilities through participation in provincial and municipal online training and self-study using resources from the National Smart Education Platform for Primary and Secondary Schools. Additionally, we can contact local vocational colleges and technical personnel from technology companies to serve as part-time teachers, regularly coming to the school to conduct lectures or workshops. 3. Make full use of existing equipment and gradually upgrade
There is no need to rush to build specialized laboratories; we can first upgrade existing computer classrooms. The focus should be on ensuring smooth network access, achieving “100 Mbps into the classroom.” Fully utilize existing computer rooms for programming teaching, purchase some cost-effective open-source hardware (such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi) to create mobile experiment boxes for use in different classes. 4. Pair support and resource sharing
Actively establish pairing relationships with schools in the city that have better conditions, sharing high-quality course resources online. Participate actively in artificial intelligence teaching seminars organized within the county, sending teachers for on-the-job learning. Make full use of the 190 regional experience centers that the province will build, organizing students to regularly visit for research activities. 5. Emphasize practical applications, close to life
Artificial intelligence teaching should avoid being overly theoretical and should design project tasks that combine local practical scenarios such as agricultural production and rural life. For example, designing intelligent irrigation models using sensors, or developing small programs for crop disease detection using image recognition technology, allowing students to feel the actual value of artificial intelligence. 6. Emphasize safety education and rationally view technology
Artificial intelligence ethics and safety education should be integrated throughout the process, guiding students to correctly understand the boundaries of technology through case analysis and debate competitions. Special attention should be paid to data security and privacy protection, prioritizing compliant domestic platforms when selecting teaching tools. 7. Establish a long-term mechanism and steadily advance
It is recommended that schools establish a promotion group for artificial intelligence education, led by the vice principal in charge, to formulate a three-year implementation plan with annual goals. Each year, allocate special funds for teacher training and basic equipment purchases, while actively seeking project funding support from county and municipal levels. In summary, grassroots schools should adhere to the principles of “adapting to local conditions, progressing step by step, and focusing on effectiveness” in carrying out artificial intelligence education, ensuring that we do not fall behind the times while remaining grounded in reality, truly allowing artificial intelligence education to take root, sprout, and bear fruit in southwestern Shandong.
