Students in a Moncton middle school recently entered a virtual dungeon. They escaped a dragon while learning about cybersecurity. Other students designed visual presentations and programmed tiny robots. Artificial intelligence tools powered these activities.

The Anglophone East School District spent years exploring AI in classrooms. Now more New Brunswick schools are joining the effort. The Department of Education officially added AI learning to the updated anglophone kindergarten through Grade 12 curriculum, according to CBC News. If you have children in the local school system, you will see these changes firsthand.

A Structured Approach to Technology

This move places New Brunswick in contrast with other regions. School systems in Norway, New York, and Los Angeles recently restricted or banned student AI use. Critics want more deliberation. They push back against bringing this technology into classrooms right now.

New Brunswick takes a structured approach. Jordan Smith coordinates tech and AI for Anglophone East. She says the province mindfully integrates AI so educators teach students in an age appropriate way. Students in kindergarten through Grade 2 learn basic digital literacy. They discuss how they feel using technology and learn that digital information is not always correct.

Older students practice on digital devices. Primary students do not use chatbots. School AI tools adhere to platform age restrictions. Approved platforms include Canva, Suno, and Microsoft Copilot. Students aged 13 and older need parental consent for certain tools. Teachers receive professional development and support from tech coaches to manage these new resources.

Pushback from Parents and Teachers

Not everyone supports the rapid rollout. Parents worry about the fast pace of AI development. Ben Humphreys helped found Parents for AI Caution in Schools. He worries about student overreliance on AI stunting cognition. He wants schools to pause the rollout.

Teachers share these concerns. Clint Johnston presides over the Canadian Teachers Federation. He says many educators feel unprepared. He urges schools to slow down and provide proper support to teachers. A recent KPMG Canada survey shows students use AI much more than educators. Rob Clayton leads education at KPMG Canada. He notes a lack of clear policy and guidance from leadership.

Andre Cote directs public policy at The Dais. He calls the New Brunswick curriculum an important first step. He urges education ministries across Canada to move in unison and share best practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What AI tools are New Brunswick students using?

Students use approved platforms like Canva for visual design, Suno for music, and Microsoft Copilot for research and writing analysis.

Are young children interacting with AI chatbots?

No. Students in kindergarten through Grade 2 focus on basic digital literacy and classroom discussions. Chatbots and advanced tools are reserved for older students and require parental consent.

Do parents have the option to opt out of AI activities for their children?

Yes. Schools send digital consent forms home. If you do not want your child engaging with AI tools, you simply decline the consent form.