Can kids learn to use AI without touching a screen? This Chicago after-school program is betting on it
Publish Date: 2026-06-21 06:30:00
Source Domain: www.wbez.org
- Matthew Uriosdegui and his friends at South Shore after-school program collaborate to create a rap song and use an AI tool, Suno, to generate music.
- Overture Games, an initiative founded by Northwestern graduates Aspen Buckingham and Steven Jiang, focuses on teaching children AI skills through a paper-and-pencil method to maintain a balance and enhance learning while minimizing screen time.
- The program aims to address the lack of formalized AI education for young children and offers hands-on learning, such as creating games and characters, with AI assisting in the final output.
- Experts have differing views on the method; while some believe prompting AI is not the key skill, others argue hands-on creation aids retention, fostering creativity alongside critical thinking.
- Uneven access to AI education exists, with wealthier districts more likely to provide it. Overture addresses this through partnerships and grants, making their programs free or low-cost.
- Parents generally support the initiative, appreciating the opportunity for their children to learn about AI in a controlled manner while ensuring traditional skills like handwriting are maintained. However, some express concerns about increased interest in screens post-participation.
