Key Takeaways

Introduction

• Ana NZ is the global lead for Education Equity at AWS
• The session will explore the role of cloud in generating social impact, particularly in the domain of education equity

Cloud's Role in Social Impact

• Cloud technology has enabled positive social impact across various sectors like health, disaster response, environment, and education
• In education, cloud has enabled initiatives like:
  • Hurricane response: Using satellite imagery and cloud technology to identify areas in need and direct humanitarian aid
  • Maternal health support: Enabling organizations like Jakaranda Health to provide information and support to pregnant women in Kenya

Education Equity

• Education equity means ensuring every learner, regardless of background, can access education and opportunity
• It is important as it enables participation and thriving in the increasingly tech-driven world

AWS Initiatives in Education

• AWS offers various education initiatives like:
  • AWS Skill Builder: Free and paid education on various cloud topics
  • AWS AI/ML Scholarship: Free training in AI and machine learning for students
  • Amazon Future Engineer: K-12 computer science education program

Challenges around AI in Education

• Educators are asking questions around how to use AI that:
  • Does not replace them
  • Helps improve learning delivery
  • Is safe for students' education journeys

Code.org and AI Teaching Assistant

• Code.org is a non-profit organization focused on bringing computer science education to students globally
• They have developed an AI Teaching Assistant to help teachers save time on assessing student coding projects
• The AI assistant provides evidence-based feedback, allowing teachers to maintain control and agency over the assessment process

Scratch and AI Unlocking Learner Agency

• Scratch is the world's largest online creative coding community for kids
• It empowers kids to express themselves through coding, using a "Creative Learning" philosophy focused on projects, peers, and play
• Scratch is exploring ways to leverage AI to enhance the creative coding experience for kids, while maintaining their agency and safety

Key Insights

• AI can aid educators by automating tedious tasks like assessment, allowing them to focus more on personalized learning and student interactions
• Engaging students and getting their feedback is crucial in designing safe and equitable AI-powered educational tools
• There is still an ongoing journey in finding the right balance between AI capabilities and maintaining human agency, both for educators and learners