The Ministry of Education in Taiwan is taking a significant step towards preparing the next generation for an AI-centric economy by integrating computer science studies related to artificial intelligence (AI) into public education. Deputy Minister of Education Yeh Ping-cheng announced this initiative at an international digital learning conference in Taipei, emphasizing the importance of innovation in education.
Yeh highlighted the need for teachers to address concerns from parents who fear that using the Internet in classrooms would lead to excessive computer game usage among children. He shared his experience of promoting digital learning over the past decade and noted that the COVID-19 pandemic served as a milestone in demonstrating the educational benefits of utilizing the Internet.
To further enhance AI education, universities are set to collaborate with schools to share resources and faculty members in AI-related programs. Plans are underway to introduce 14 courses aimed at creating a workforce well-versed in the design and application of AI in professional settings. This strategic approach will equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
In addition to university-level programs, high schools and vocational schools are also gearing up to offer electives focused on AI. The emphasis on online classes ensures that students from both urban and rural areas have equal access to quality education opportunities. By incorporating AI education at various levels, Taiwan is paving the way for a technologically adept workforce.
The Ministry of Education is collaborating with National Cheng Kung University to organize competitions for elementary school students to design AI models that control game avatars. This initiative not only fosters creativity and problem-solving skills among students but also serves as a cost-effective alternative to traditional robot programming competitions that require expensive resources.
Overall, the integration of AI education into public schools marks a significant shift towards preparing students for the future job market. By equipping them with essential skills in AI, Taiwan is positioning itself as a leader in digital education. This forward-thinking approach will undoubtedly benefit the country’s economy and workforce in the long run.