CHENNAI: Starting next academic year, students in classes 6 to 9 in Tamil Nadu will learn the basics of computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), coding, and online tools as part of their curriculum.
The State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) is in the final stage of preparing the syllabus with expert inputs and will soon begin training teachers.
According to sources, the new curriculum, besides covering coding, machine learning and robotics, will also integrate online tools, such as GeoGebra (interactive math application) and PhET (Physics Education Technology) simulations, to help students understand math and science concepts that are already a part of the syllabus. These tools will be made available at the hi-tech laboratories in middle schools, and teachers and students will be trained to use them effectively.
The students will also be introduced to visual-based programming tools like Scratch and Blockly which will allow them to create animations, games, and interactive stories.
Teachers to be trained in new subjects
As they progress, the students will learn Python and other programming languages, enabling them to write basic programs. Students will also explore the applications of AI and machine learning and learn pattern recognition, among other concepts.
The school education department recently held a meeting with industry experts to gather inputs for drafting the syllabus. Once finalised, interested math and science teachers will be trained in teaching the new subjects.
The teachers’ feedback will be used to refine the syllabus to ensure effective classroom implementation, said officials.
The department, in collaboration with Microsoft, had previously implemented the Technology Education and Learning Support (TEALS) programme, introducing advanced technologies to over 100 schools, covering 38,000 students in Classes 6 to 9.