The State of Utah mandates that core computer science standards for public schools include specific instruction on artificial intelligence, according to state law effective since Jan. 24, 2018. The requirements demand that students learn about artificial intelligence generally, the appropriate use of the technology as a tool, and the ethical implications of AI interaction.
Artificial Intelligence Integration
Under current Utah education code, the state board is required to include artificial intelligence standards within the core computer science standards. This instructional component is designed to educate students on the general nature of artificial intelligence and the proper methods for utilizing AI as a functional tool.
Ethical and Functional Standards
The law specifically requires that the curriculum address artificial intelligence awareness and ethical interaction. This includes a requirement for students to understand the specific role that artificial intelligence plays in the processes of information filtering and decision-making.
Digital Literacy and Security
In addition to artificial intelligence, the state board must adopt computer science standards and objectives that cover several digital literacy areas. These include digital skills concepts and technology related to digital responsibility, privacy, and security. The state also requires instruction on the critical evaluation of digital information sources and the media literacy skills necessary for informed digital responsibility.
Mental Health and Social Media
The state's educational requirements also address the intersection of technology and student well-being. Standards must include age-appropriate social media literacy and healthy usage strategies, which specifically include recognizing the impact of social media on mental health and civic discourse. Furthermore, the curriculum must address screen-time management and mental health considerations within digital environments.
Stakeholder Consultation and Objectives
When establishing these minimum standards, the state board is required to consult with various stakeholders, including local school boards, school superintendents, teachers, employers, and parents. The goal of these standards is to enable students to communicate effectively through verbal and written means, apply mathematics, access and analyze information, and understand history and government.
Curriculum and Competency Progression
The state board is permitted to recommend, but not require, a local school board or a charter school governing board to use a particular curriculum or a model curriculum. However, the board must ensure that the basic knowledge, skills, and competencies identified for students increase in depth and complexity as they advance through the public education system.
Alignment and Academic Progress
The core standards must be aligned with the assessments described in Section 53E-4-303. These standards are intended to ensure consistent and continual progress for students within and between grade levels and courses across basic academic areas, including English, which encompasses phonics, spelling, grammar, reading, writing, vocabulary, speech, and listening.
