Understanding how Computers Learn: AI Literacy for Elementary School Learners

Elementary school learners regularly use artificial intelligence (AI) technologies like smart assistants. We discuss how young learners can acquire AI literacy skills related to the practical application, technical understanding, and critical appraisal of AI. We conceptualise a hands-on workshop on understanding how computers can be taught through programming and machine learning for learners without prior knowledge. We evaluate participants’ AI literacy quantitatively and qualitatively and find a large variance in interest, understanding, and knowledge in the relatively homogeneous groups. Our findings suggest that elementary school learners can understand basic machine learning concepts and gain ethical considerations, including data quality and bias. Given the importance of early AI education, the workshop concept can be implemented by teachers without formal computer science training, addressing the current limitation in AI education in elementary schools.