The 8 Best AI Programs for Middle School Students
In the dynamic landscape of education, the gateway to the future lies in empowering the young minds of today with cutting-edge knowledge. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a beacon, beckoning middle school students into a realm where innovation and technology intertwine. In this blog post, we embark on an exciting journey to uncover the eight best AI programs tailored specifically for middle school students. These programs aren't just courses; they are keyholders to a world where curiosity meets code, imagination intertwines with algorithms, and the potential for creativity is boundless.
From virtual classrooms to hands-on workshops, each program is a curated adventure, designed to captivate the minds of budding technophiles and thinkers alike. Whether you're a novice eager to explore the foundations of AI or a budding coder ready to dive deep into machine learning, these programs promise an immersive experience. Join us as we unveil the pathways to AI education that not only impart knowledge but also cultivate a passion for innovation. The future of technology lies in the hands of these young minds, and these eight programs are the stepping stones to a journey where AI becomes not just a subject but a gateway to limitless possibilities.
8 Best AI Programs for Middle School Students
1. Inspirit AI Creators and AI Pioneers
Location: Virtual
Fee: $1100 (all inclusive)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Rolling; sessions available year-round
Inspirit AI aims to inspire curiosity in elementary and middle school students globally, by exposing them to the defining technology of our times. We provide small, live, online, courses in AI with a focus on web development, mobile development, and more––getting students interested in applying cutting-edge technology for social good.
This program, developed and taught exclusively by a team of alumni and students from Stanford, MIT, and Harvard, provides a background in programming fundamentals, initiating AI-inspired projects, and general mentorship.
In the AI Creators program for 5th-7th grades, students build AI apps using block-based programming tools. As students learn about the concepts and ethical challenges behind AI and the basics of programming, they train and deploy machine learning models for self-driving cars, chatbots, classification problems, and more! No prior programming or computer science background is required. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are particularly encouraged to participate.
In the AI Pioneers program for advanced 7th and 8th grades, students dive into training AI to understand language, fight disease, drive independently, and more. As they learn to program AI in Python and RunDexter, they apply algorithms to real-world datasets, discuss AI ethics and careers, and build interactive web apps to develop their machine learning models.
2. Philosophy of AI at Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
Location: Virtual
Fee: $3,050 (financial aid available)
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024 (based on last year’s deadline)
Program Dates: Typically conducted in June and July
The Philosophy of AI program at Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes is a thought-provoking experience designed to immerse middle school students in the profound questions surrounding artificial intelligence. Going beyond coding and technical skills, this program encourages participants to delve into the philosophical implications of AI on contemporary society. Through engaging readings, discussions, and a variety of activities and projects, students critically examine the ethical and social aspects of AI. Questions arise concerning the impact of algorithms and machine learning on critical issues such as lending decisions and criminal sentences. Successful completion of the program not only signifies a deep understanding of AI's philosophical dimensions but also equips students with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the ethical considerations of emerging technologies.
3. Beaver Works Middle School Program at MIT
Location: In-person and virtual options
Fee: Free
Application Deadline: Typically opens in May
Program Dates: 4 weeks starting the Monday after the July 4 weekend
The Beaver Works Middle School Program at MIT is a truly immersive initiative designed to ignite the curiosity of middle school students in the realms of artificial intelligence and engineering. Unlike traditional programs, Beaver Works doesn't stop at theory; it emphasizes hands-on learning and problem-solving in a collaborative and creative environment. Over the four-week duration, students are exposed to the captivating world of AI and engineering, challenged to think critically, and encouraged to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The program's emphasis on teamwork and collaborative projects provides a unique opportunity for students to work together, share ideas, and apply AI and engineering concepts to address real challenges. Beyond learning the theoretical aspects of AI, participants gain practical skills, fostering a deep understanding of how AI can be utilized to solve complex problems. The Beaver Works Middle School Program is not just a program; it's an adventure that propels students into the world of AI with a hands-on and collaborative approach, laying the foundation for a future where they can contribute meaningfully to the field.
4. Creativity and AI Workshop at MIT Raise
Location: Virtual
Fee: Free
Application Deadline: Varies
Program Dates: Varies
The Creativity and AI Workshop at MIT Raise is a dynamic program tailored for middle school students eager to blend their creative instincts with the power of artificial intelligence. This program is an immersive experience that not only introduces innovative machine learning techniques but also provides hands-on activities, some involving digital devices and hardware, and others emphasizing creativity without digital tools. At the core of the workshop is the exploration of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), a cutting-edge AI platform capable of generating art, music, and more. The RAISE program's unique curriculum approach allows students to coordinate with their teachers to access specific materials, ensuring a customized learning experience. Beyond creativity, participants can explore other workshops and curricula available on the RAISE website, such as Conversational AI Tools and PICaboo, broadening their exposure to diverse aspects of AI. Joining the Creativity and AI Workshop at MIT Raise is an invitation to unleash artistic potential and explore the limitless possibilities of AI.
5. GirlsWhoCode Clubs
Location: Virtual / In-person
Fee: Free
Application Deadline: None (registration required)
Program Dates: Vary by club
GirlsWhoCode Clubs provide an empowering platform for students in grade 3 and above to embark on a journey into the world of computer science. Whether virtually or in-person, these clubs offer a free and flexible environment where members learn fundamental computer science concepts, including loops, variables, conditionals, and functions. The emphasis is not just on theoretical learning but on practical application through real-world projects, fostering collaboration and essential coding skills. Guided by a Club Facilitator and supported by free tutorials and meeting guides, participants gain a deeper understanding of coding in a safe and inclusive setting. The flexible scheduling of these clubs accommodates students during summer breaks, weekends, or after school hours, providing a dynamic and supportive space for girls to thrive in the world of computer science. Joining a GirlsWhoCode Club isn't just about learning to code; it's about becoming part of a vibrant community and gaining the skills to shape the future of technology.
6. AI For Good
Location: Virtual
Fee: Free
Application Deadline: None
Program Dates: Available year-round
AI For Good, a year-round digital platform presented by the United Nations' International Telecommunication Union, serves as a nexus for young minds eager to leverage AI for positive impact. This innovative platform goes beyond conventional learning, offering a wide array of programs that focus on addressing global challenges outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Whether building inclusive communities, tackling healthcare issues, or addressing climate change and cybersecurity, participants have the opportunity to engage with science, technology, and AI experts from around the world. The flexible scheduling of one-day sessions ensures accessibility, allowing students to immerse themselves in AI learning at their own pace. AI For Good is more than just a program; it's a call to action, inspiring students to apply their AI skills to real-world problems and contribute to making the world a better place.
7. Berkeley Coding Academy
Location: Virtual
Fee: $2,495 (limited scholarships available)
Application Deadline: To be announced
Program Dates: Held in the summer (dates to be announced)
The Data Science to AI program at the Berkeley Coding Academy provides an enriching opportunity for students aged 12-18 to delve into the realms of AI, machine learning, and big data science. Offering one-on-one classes and a junior Python coders program, this program caters to diverse learning backgrounds. Participants not only acquire the essential skills to code in Python but also learn to apply these skills to AI and machine learning tasks using real-world data. Working collaboratively in small groups, students create their own projects and models, gaining hands-on experience that can be directly applied to real-world challenges. The program's access to valuable resources, including Berkeley coding academy lecture videos, slides, and portfolio projects, ensures a comprehensive learning experience. The Berkeley Coding Academy is not just a coding program; it's a transformative journey where students gain the technical skills and confidence to tackle complex AI projects and contribute meaningfully to the field.
8. AI for Oceans
Location: Virtual
Fee: Free
Application Deadline: None (registration required)
Program Dates: Available year-round
AI for Oceans, a collaborative initiative between Code.org and Microsoft, offers a unique program that transcends traditional coding experiences. This program isn't just about learning about AI; it's about actively applying AI to real-world challenges in marine biology. Participants engage in the complexities of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and ethical considerations, training machine learning models to address marine biology challenges. Beyond theoretical understanding, students use Support-Vector Machines to analyze oceanic data, gaining practical skills that can be applied to marine conservation efforts. AI for Oceans is an ideal choice for students passionate about computer science, marine biology, or environmental conservation. By participating, students not only gain essential skills in analyzing oceanic data but also contribute to the development of AI-based solutions to address critical issues like pollution and climate change, making a tangible impact on the world.
Conclusion
These ten meticulously crafted AI programs offer middle school students more than just an education in artificial intelligence. They provide immersive experiences that cater to diverse interests and learning styles, sparking creativity, nurturing curiosity, and fostering a deep understanding of the possibilities within the realm of AI. Whether exploring the ethical dimensions of AI, creating art through machine learning, or actively applying AI to real-world challenges, each program is a gateway to a future where technology boundaries are pushed beyond imagination. As we conclude this exploration, we encourage every middle school student with a passion for AI to embark on this incredible journey. These AI programs aren't just about learning; they are about sparking creativity, nurturing curiosity, and fostering the next generation of innovators. The world of AI is at your fingertips – seize the opportunity and become a trailblazer in the age of artificial intelligence.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
