‘A.I. Literacy’ Is Trending in Schools. Here’s Why.

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by Natasha Singer

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Artificial intelligence companies are increasingly urging schools to prepare students for an “A.I.-driven future,” with varying approaches across institutions. Some schools, like North Star Academy Washington Park High School in Newark, utilize A.I. chatbots to help students explore career paths and enhance their writing skills. Meanwhile, other schools focus on teaching students how to interact with AI tools like Google’s Gemini, analyzing the information they generate and understanding associated risks such as misinformation or biased results. Some even encourage students to use AI to create their own applications. The push for A.I. literacy reflects a broader trend in tech education, where companies introduce new technologies and advocate for their integration into school curricula. Past efforts have included initiatives like computer literacy, internet literacy, and mobile literacy, each with varying degrees of success. Now, tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are leading the charge to incorporate AI into education, emphasizing its potential to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for future career opportunities. The concept of A.I. literacy involves more than just technical skills; it also includes understanding the societal implications of AI. By teaching students to analyze AI-generated content critically, educators aim to equip them with the ability to navigate an increasingly AI-driven world. This includes recognizing potential risks like misinformation and bias, as well as fostering creativity by encouraging students to develop their own applications using AI tools. As schools adapt to these new technologies, the focus remains on preparing students for a rapidly

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026