The Future of AI
What AI might do in 10 years; what we want it to do and what we're worried about; children as future designers and decision-makers about AI; hopeful, empowered framing
What a learner can do afterwards
- Describe at least two ways AI might be used in the future that don't exist yet
- Explain one thing they would want AI to do and one thing they would want it not to do
- Describe why it matters that young people understand AI — because they will shape how it is used
The lesson
Nobody knows exactly what AI will do in ten years, but people are already imagining it. AI might help scientists invent new medicines, help farmers grow food using less water, or translate any language instantly so people everywhere can understand each other. These are not things AI does well today. They are things that could happen if people build them carefully.
Would you want AI to write your school essays for you? Many people would say no, because you would not get to practice your own ideas. But many of those same people would want AI to help scientists find cures for diseases faster. Thinking about what you want AI to do, and what you don't, is part of guiding its future.
You get to help decide. The AI of the future will be built and used by people who are kids right now. Your ideas about what is fair and helpful matter, even if you're not the one writing the code.
AI's future is not decided yet, and the choices people make now, including yours, will shape what it becomes.
Watch it
Where it sits
This opens up
Nothing builds on it yet.
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.