This week was entirely focused on the students. TECH CORPS launched two separate programs at its main office building, Artificial Intelligence and ITonRamp+. Each class was comprised of high school freshmen and sophomores from all across the Columbus area. I chosen as an observer and assistant for the programs, I was able to learn alongside the students and get an insider look.

The artificial intelligence program has four main learning targets: detecting AI usage, using AI responsibly, and career opportunities. Starting with detection, students are trained to recognize AI’s patterns. They learned what AI looks like when used for deepfakes, what it sounds while replicating someone’s voice, and its typing habits when prompted to write. The students were able to accurately pinpoint every time AI was used. Secondly, they learned how to use AI responsibly. Questions such as “How can AI be problematic?” and “What should and should not be shared with AI?” were discussed throughout the class as constant ideas. The students had nuanced opinions and were able to discuss openly and freely. Thirdly, future careers in AI. Students were informed on possible careers available to them. The students were able to hold mature conversations with one another about their futures. Despite not being the intended ‘audience,’ I learned new information I would have never learned otherwise.

In the other program, ITonRamp+, students learned about developing software as well as using mathematics for data analysis. As of today, the students are in the prototyping phase of creating their apps. They will work on it as the class progresses. While working on their apps they will be learning advanced mathematics beyond the typical high school skill level. They were on par with college level curriculum, specifically college algebra and calculus 2. I was able to help personally, giving them future advice and techniques that puts them ahead of their potential classmates.

I enjoyed working with both the instructors and the students. I look forward to seeing where what they will learn next.