In a significant move to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into educational curricula across New Mexico, a special budget request has been submitted to the Legislature. Spearheaded by Enrico Pontelli, the dean of arts and sciences and a regents professor of computer science at New Mexico State University (NMSU), the proposal seeks $660,000 annually for three years. This funding aims to establish a statewide Artificial Intelligence Alliance.
The Alliance’s mission and structure
The proposed alliance, to be based at NMSU, will collaborate with industry leaders and educators throughout New Mexico. Its primary focus is to train educators, from kindergarten to community college levels, in incorporating AI lessons into their teaching. The ultimate goal is to demystify AI technology and dispel prevalent fears associated with it.
The emergence of ChatGPT, an AI-driven text chatbot from OpenAI, has sparked widespread concern among educators. The worry is that students could misuse such tools to complete assignments, potentially undermining educational integrity. Addressing this, Vanessa Romero, deputy superintendent for teaching and learning at Santa Fe Public Schools, emphasized the need to balance AI’s potential as a teaching tool with safeguards against improper use.
Focus on skills, not expertise
Pontelli’s vision is not to create AI experts but to equip everyone with basic AI skills. This initiative aims to keep New Mexico’s educational institutions ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The alliance is seen as a key step in preparing students for AI-inclusive future careers.
Irene Lee from MIT and Paige Prescott, executive director of the Computer Science Alliance, highlighted successful AI education pilot programs in New Mexico. These programs have already led to teachers receiving professional development and starting to implement AI lessons in classrooms.
Ethical and responsible AI use
Another crucial aspect of this initiative is fostering a culture of ethical and responsible AI use. With AI facing issues like privacy concerns, security risks, and biases, broader education in this field could help students approach AI critically and responsibly.
A major challenge in implementing AI education is the state’s digital divide, particularly in semi-rural and rural areas with limited access to technology and the internet. However, there are solutions, as Lee pointed out. Some AI lessons can be conducted without internet access, using simple exercises and games to teach AI concepts.
The demand for AI education
Despite these challenges, there is a strong demand for AI and computer science education across New Mexico, in both rural and urban areas. The statewide Artificial Intelligence Alliance aims to meet this demand, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds receive a foundational education in AI.
The initiative to bring AI into New Mexico’s classrooms represents a forward-thinking approach to education. By preparing students for a future where AI is increasingly prevalent, New Mexico aims to bridge the gap between technology and education, ensuring that its students are not only consumers of technology but also informed participants in its evolution.
