Researcher(s)
- Julia Stutzke, Computer Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Debra Yarrington, Computer Science, University of Delaware
Abstract
As Artificial intelligence (AI) quickly expands to affect almost every aspect of our lives, it is becoming critical that everyone have a deeper understanding of this technology. AI Literacy can be defined as knowing how to safely, ethically, and productively use AI. This knowledge is increasingly important, as 90% of college students report frequent AI use in the classroom [2], yet only 37% of institutions have implemented mandatory AI training for their instructors [1]. As a free and accessible resource for educators, trAIn hopes to increase AI literacy for everyone. trAIn covers a variety of literacy topics, from knowing how much water a prompt uses to determine whether a video is real or artificially generated.
trAIn has two uses: an informational tool, and an educational tool.
As an informational tool, trAIn covers seven sub-topics: the types of AI, AI’s environmental impact, mental health risks associated with AI, using AI ethically, using AI to improve daily quality of life, and image and video verification as real or AI.
As an educational tool, it functions as a lesson plan for middle and high school teachers. Teachers can login and access extension activities, as well as our Forum where they can converse with other teachers about AI use in the classroom.
Preliminary feedback from a group of high school teachers was quite positive. Suggestions included making the lessons multimodal with topics for discussion, and choosing a theme that appeals to a broader set of students.
Overall, trAIn hopes to facilitate a world in which everyone uses AI in a smart and ethical manner.
- Schroeder, Ray. “Urgent Need for AI Literacy.” UPCEA, 30 Apr. 2025, upcea.edu/urgent-need-for-ai-literacy/.
- Spitalniak, Laura. “90% of Students Use AI in the Classroom, Instructure Poll Finds.” Higher Ed Dive, 21 July 2026, www.highereddive.com/news/90-of-students-use-ai-in-the-classroom-instructure-poll-finds/825714/.