WINforCS Professional Network 23-24

Join us for a comprehensive three-part professional development journey designed for educators eager to embrace the world of AI! Our first session offers an insightful overview of AI’s presence in our daily lives, from cars to home automation. Dive deep into breakout sessions discussing responsible AI use in classrooms, instructional strategies, and collaborative learning. The second session hones in on the practicalities of implementing ChatGPT for educators, while the third delves into its application with students. Discover the magic of AI innovations and get ready to be inspired and informed in this educational adventure!

WINforCS is the Washington Integration Network for Computer Science. We’re a network of educators from across the state who come together three times a year with the following goals:

• Create leaders who can help to promote equitable integration of computer science (CS) and computational thinking (CT) concepts and activities, especially for underserved populations.
• Keep educators apprised of the big picture of computer science education in Washington State.
• Help educators understand how and why to use integrated CS/CT activities to enhance all curriculum areas, teach 21st century skills, and expose students to essential concepts.
• Join a professional learning community that shares fun and exciting activities, resources, and tools for use in classrooms.

Learn more and register >

Schedule

• Welcome and Purpose – Molly Brinkley & Shannon Thissen
• AI Activator – Mike Batali
• OSPI State Update for CS – Terron Ishihara

Keynote – 30 min

AI Today: Real-world Implementations and Emerging Technologies – Pete Phillips

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world around us, and education is no exception. Today, we will explore the many ways in which AI is being used:

• What is AI and how does it work?
• Common examples of AI in use today
• How AI is being used in K12 classrooms
• Potential benefits and challenges of AI in education
• How educators can prepare their students for the future of work in an AI-powered world

Breakout Sessions – 1 hr

AI in the Classroom: Instructional Strategies, Concerns, and Collaborative Learning for Educators – Vanessa Allen & Mike Batali

In this session, we will explore responsible and ethical AI use, demystify common concerns, and offer strategies teachers can explore before introducing students to AI tools. You are invited to come ready to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with peers to learn together and elevate needs for support.

The Educator’s Guide to AI Chatbots – Molly Brinkley

Explore the world of AI Chatbots! This introductory session invites educators to learn about the inner workings of these innovative tools. You’ll gain insights on how to leverage them for personal and professional needs.

ChatGPT, Bard, Bing AI, – Oh my… – Dr. Shannon Thissen

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed how we work and play in recent months, giving almost anyone the ability to write code, create art, and even make investments. For professional and hobbyist users alike, generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, feature advanced capabilities to create decent-quality content from a simple prompt given by the user. As Microsoft adds GPT-4 to Bing, OpenAI adds new capabilities to ChatGPT, and Bard connects to the Google ecosystem, keeping up with all the latest AI tools can get confusing.

Open Discussion – Trinh Pham

Stay in the main room to have an open discussion about AI. Bring your questions to ask the group.

Learn more and register >