Florida Virtual School Launches AI in Math Certification Program
Florida Students Get AI in Math Certification
Florida middle and high school students will soon have the chance to earn a new certification in Artificial Intelligence (AI) applied to math. This unique opportunity will be available starting next month through the Florida Virtual School (FLVS), the state’s online school system. FLVS is partnering with the University of Florida (UF) and the Concord Consortium, a Massachusetts-based STEM education resource provider, to roll out this certification program that lasts a full year.
Course Overview
The AI in Math certification is designed to introduce students to foundational principles of AI and demonstrate how these concepts intersect with essential math topics like algebra. Key aspects of the curriculum include:
- Algebra 1 Instruction: Courses will be taught primarily by Algebra 1 instructors who will integrate AI concepts into the lessons.
- Supplemental Activities: Students will engage in activities that cover real-world applications of AI, ethical considerations, and various career opportunities within the field.
- Continuous Improvement: Researchers from UF and Concord Consortium will work alongside teachers to refine the curriculum, ensuring it meets the educational needs of students based on performance outcomes.
Expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) Offerings
The introduction of the AI in Math certification adds to FLVS’s existing career and technical education (CTE) programs. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications by completing a series of courses. For instance, FLVS currently offers four AI-related CTE courses:
- AI in Math
- Data Analytics
- Cybersecurity
- Software Development
Once students complete at least three of these courses, they will be eligible to take the following certification exams:
- Microsoft 365 Fundamentals: A certification that covers core Microsoft productivity tools.
- Python Institute’s Certified Associate Python Programmer: This certification validates skills in Python programming.
Completing all four courses may also prepare students to take the Certified Internet Web Professional exam offered by Western Governors University, which could pave the way for careers in web development, data security, and other related fields.
Cost and Accessibility
What’s notable about the AI in Math certification is that it is a free program integrated into the Algebra 1 coursework. This makes it accessible to students who otherwise might not have opportunities to explore AI in a structured academic setting.
Jie Chao, a project director at the Concord Consortium, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “AI is revolutionizing industries worldwide, creating new opportunities. Our partnership with FLVS allows us to offer robust AI learning opportunities to students with limited access to such resources, bridging educational gaps and preparing young people for an AI-powered future."
Certificate Recognition and Teacher Training
Students who complete the AI in Math certification program will receive a certificate issued by both UF and the Concord Consortium. This certificate has similarities to the AI fundamentals certification that UF offers to its undergraduate students, thereby adding value to the students’ educational credentials.
Teachers at FLVS will also benefit from this program. They will undergo 40 hours of professional development aimed at enhancing their understanding of new technologies in mathematics education. This includes training in developing interactive AI models and visualizing abstract math concepts effectively.
Commitment to Educational Innovation
Louis Algaze, the president and CEO of Florida Virtual School, commented on the significance of this collaboration with UF and the Concord Consortium, saying, “As a leader in online education for more than 27 years, Florida Virtual School is committed to being at the forefront of educational innovation. By partnering with UF and the Concord Consortium, we are equipping our students with essential math skills and the knowledge to navigate and succeed in an AI-enhanced world.”
This program represents a significant step forward in integrating artificial intelligence into the educational framework, preparing students for a future where AI plays an increasingly important role in various sectors.
