Intro to AI in K-12 Education Microcredential
Our AI Education initiative will offer a series of four microcredentials co-designed with teachers (from public, private, and charter schools), instructional designers, and coaches to equip educators with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate AI into K-12 education effectively.
About the Microcredential
This microcredential is an introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) in and for K-12 education. This course will demystify AI through explorations of types, applications, and the conceptual AI knowledge needed to support the systematic integration of AI in K-12 classrooms. The course will demonstrate how AI can be used in the classroom, explore important considerations for its application such as data privacy and bias concerns, and provide practices and frameworks for AI integration that takes into account the unique backgrounds and capabilities of teachers and the learning needs of all students.
Currently accepting registrations!
Spring 2026 session
Course begins: January 13, 2026.
Registration closes: January 7, 2026.
Current registration cost:
$60
Modules
Module 1: Artificial Intelligence
Providing foundational knowledge on what AI is and what it isn’t with hands-on activities and reflections of practice.
Module 2: Five Big Ideas in AI
Expanding AI knowledge by exploring the Five Big Ideas in AI and engaging in these ideas with example activities (that could be lessons).
Module 3: AI Critical Eye
Presenting key concerns and ethical considerations about AI, especially in the classroom.
Module 4: Integrating AI in the Classroom
Engaging teachers in the possible ways to integrate and discuss AI in their classroom, including lesson plan modification tasks and discussion simulators.
Module 5: The Why, When, and How of AI
Challenging educators to design their own lesson plan that integrates AI and leverage or adjust existing frameworks to support the tool selection process.
Statistics
States participating:
School districts participating:
Teachers enrolled since course launch:
Completion rate:
84%
Testimonials
Now, I see AI in a completely different way. It’s not just a time-saver, it’s something that can really help personalize learning and give students more support.
When I began this course, I viewed AI as mainly something that could help automate tasks, mainly a way for students to cheat. My perception has shifted. I see AI as a powerful tool/thinking partner that can enhance creativity, differentiation, and access in the classroom if and when used correctly. AI does not and will not replace teachers or student reasoning. It can help students explore different solution paths, visualize concepts in a new way while allowing the teacher to have a deeper insight into the students’ learning processes.
FAQs
What is the time commitment?
Each online, asynchronous microcredential is designed for preservice and inservice K-12 teachers and requires approximately 20 hours of self-paced work. While part of a series, microcredentials can be taken individually and in any order based on your interests and needs. The course typically runs for about four weeks.
What is this course about?
This microcredential introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. It aims to demystify AI by exploring types of AI, real-world applications, and foundational concepts needed for effective integration into the classroom. Topics include:
- AI concepts and literacy in practice
- Ethical considerations such as data privacy and bias
- Frameworks for responsible AI integration
The course supports teachers in leveraging AI in ways that align with their unique teaching contexts and student needs.
Are there any prerequisites?
No prior knowledge is required. These microcredentials are entirely online and self-paced, structured in modules for flexibility. Each one is designed to provide immediately applicable strategies and insights, both for your current teaching and future practice.
How long do I have access to the course materials?
You will have lifetime access to the course materials, so you can revisit them whenever you need.
What kind of certificate or credential will I earn?
Upon completion, you will earn a certificate of completion, a digital badge, and 20 hours of documented professional learning. (We are exploring the option for continuing education credit in Florida and possibly other states.)
Is there any instructor support or peer collaboration? Will I receive feedback on my work?
Yes. The course includes graded assignments with instructor feedback as well as opportunities for peer interaction throughout the modules.
Is this course suitable for my subject or grade level?
Yes. This course is designed for pre-service and in-service K–12 teachers across all subject areas, as well as for industry professionals interested in supporting K–12 education.
Is the course accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities?
Yes. The course is designed to be accessible to all learners, including those using accessible and assistive technologies.
Registration Information
For Districts
Empower your K-12 educators with our AI Microcredential Course! Districts can benefit from bulk purchasing options, a customized contract with payment deferred until course completion, and a dedicated online section exclusively for your staff. Elevate CS and AI integration across your district.
Contact us to learn more: cseveryone@coe.ufl.edu.
For Individuals
Teachers! Ready to enhance your skills? Register now for our microcredential course!
Here are the steps to register a single teacher:
- Log into the course catalog system
- If you have an active Gatorlink (@ufl.edu email), use the top login.
- If not, use the Guest login and create an account. Complete the personal information, answering only mandatory questions. You will need to verify your email address by clicking a link sent to your email.
- Once you are logged in, go to our course in the course catalog: 777858 – Introduction to Artificial Intelligence in K-12 Education
- Click on the AI-K12 SPR 26 section title to view more details.
- Click Add to Cart.
- Checkout and complete payment.
Reach out to Dr. Leela Kumaran at lkumaran@coe.ufl.edu for any issues.
