NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ASHBURN, VA (April 9, 2024)—JASON Learning, in collaboration with ROC and Doddridge County Schools (DCS) in West Virginia, has developed a new localized artificial intelligence (AI) curriculum, “Trustworthy AI: Computer Vision Essentials,” designed to immerse students in the realms of AI, machine learning, computer vision, and ethical considerations in AI development.
As AI technologies increase across industries, students with a foundational understanding of computer vision and machine learning will be better equipped to enter fields such as computer science, engineering, data analysis, and artificial intelligence development.
Scott Cochran, Principal of Doddridge County High School
According to Cochran, teaching the basic and applied concepts of AI in high schools provides an opportunity to discuss the ethical and social implications of AI technologies. Students can explore topics such as bias in AI algorithms, privacy concerns, and the impact of AI on society. By fostering discussions around these issues, high schools can help students develop a well-rounded understanding of AI and its implications.
The curriculum is available on the JASON Digital Platform and is currently being implemented at Doddridge County High School in the Business Computer Applications class. The collaboration aims to expand its reach to partner with school districts nationwide for broader adoption in the Fall of 2024.
Learning about AI and understanding how things like facial recognition and biometrics work in the real world has opened my eyes to the ways technology influences our daily lives and how we can utilize it in various industries. Just knowing how to leverage AI makes me feel like I’m steps ahead of the game and gives me a leg up when applying for jobs.
Student from Doddridge County High School
Featuring industry experts from ROC as role models, the curriculum integrates real-world examples, storytelling, and practical insights to enhance students’ comprehension of AI and its practical applications.
Each module in Trustworthy AI: Computer Vision Essentials is facilitated by specially designed educator support materials:
- An “Educator Prep” section complete with directions and supplemental resources
- Interdisciplinary Connections
- Relevant and engaging videos and web links
- Rubrics for students content
As AI and computer vision concepts proliferate throughout our daily lives, it’s critical that we develop the next generation of developers, engineers, and thought leaders who understand how these technologies work and have the vocabulary to make informed decisions about how, when, and where we choose to deploy them.
Scott Swann, CEO of ROC
JASON Learning, a pioneer in STEM education for over three decades, is committed to democratizing STEM education and nurturing future STEM leaders. The “Trustworthy AI” curriculum is available to all of JASON’s partner school districts across the country.
JASON Learning is set to showcase the “Trustworthy AI” curriculum and offer a professional development workshop during its upcoming 2024 National Conference on July 1-2 in Leesburg, VA.
The theme of this year’s event, “Trailblazers of Tomorrow: Innovation in STEM,” is tailored for K-12 educators, administrators, and school leaders aiming to foster an entrepreneurial mindset and empower both students and educators to pave the way for the future. Scott Swann, CEO of ROC, will deliver a keynote address at the conference, highlighting “Trustworthy AI.”
Since 2020, Doddridge County Schools, in partnership with JASON Learning, has spearheaded localized curricula tailored to industry demands, aiming to bridge the gap between education and workforce needs. This initiative empowers students with practical skills and career insights, fostering academic and career success.
It’s important for us to introduce our students to not only private industries, but to the heads of those industries and the people who work in those industries, so they can look up to them as role models, to learn from them, but also so that they can walk right out of Doddridge County High School and into a real-world position.
Adam Cheeseman, Superintendent of Doddridge County Schools
The localized curriculum approach adopted by JASON Learning and DCS has yielded significant benefits and tangible outcomes for students in Doddridge County. Several high school students who enjoyed and excelled in the localized curricula have seamlessly transitioned from their educational experiences to secure internships or have been directly hired by the very companies featured in the curriculum. This is a testament to the effectiveness of the localized approach and the value placed on students’ abilities by local businesses.
Through continued collaboration and a shared commitment to educational innovation, JASON Learning, ROC, and Doddridge County Schools are laying the foundation for the next generation of trailblazers in STEM education and beyond.
Stay tuned for updates on this transformative AI education initiative.
###
About JASON Learning
JASON Learning is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through real-world STEM curricula, project-based learning experiences for PreK-12 students, and high-quality professional development for teachers. JASON’s mission is to “inspire and educate students everywhere through real science and exploration.” To learn more about JASON, visit https://jason.org/.
JASON Media Contact: Jenna Davis, jdavis@jason.org.
About ROC
ROC is an American-made, global leader in computer vision and multimodal biometrics. Founded to make the world smarter, safer, and stronger, ROC builds cutting-edge computer vision systems for government, enterprise, and consumer applications, delivering game-changing results with battle-tested reliability across NIST government testing, military applications, and 200M+ annual identity-proofing transactions. ROC is headquartered in Denver, CO, with offices in Morgantown, WV, and Grand Rapids, MI. To learn more, visit roc.ai.
