How our AI Passport Program Empowers Young Digital Citizens

 

AI Passport Course

Preparing students for a rapidly evolving digital world, Central Coast Grammar School has introduced its first AI Passport program for Years 4, 5 and 6. Developed in late 2024, the course is designed to equip students with foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence and its growing role in society. 

The AI Passport is a course aimed at helping Grammar foster responsible digital citizens. This is delivered during Digital Technologies lessons, with Year 4 completing the course in Term 1, Year 5 in Term 2, and Year 6 across Terms 2 and 3.  

In its inaugural year, the course was facilitated through class discussions followed by student reflections and application tasks in Word documents. While it was initially teacher-led, the course is structured to be self-paced and accessible to any student or teacher at any time. 

The AI Passport explores key concepts that remain relevant despite the fast pace of technological change. Students are encouraged to think critically about: 

  • What is Generative AI? 

  • What is a Large Language Model? 

  • What is machine learning and how do we train machines? 

  • Can we trust information produced by AI? 

  • What is AI bias and hallucination? 

  • How does an AI voice differ from a human voice? 

  • When and how can students use AI at school? 

These questions form the backbone of a curriculum that fosters curiosity, digital literacy, and ethical awareness. 

Recognising that the world of AI is changing faster than any static curriculum can keep up with, the AI Passport focuses on timeless principles and critical thinking.  

“As soon as a course is created and published, there’s a risk it’s already out of date,” said Andrew Cameron, Innovative Learning/Digital Literacy Curriculum Coordinator. 

“That’s why we focus on general concepts that remain relevant no matter what new tools emerge.” 

To support safe and ethical engagement with AI, Grammar has implemented a comprehensive . This ensures students understand when and how AI can be used appropriately in their learning, reinforcing the importance of academic integrity. 

AI is here to stay and while exciting, but also full of unknowns.  

“One of our greatest challenges is ensuring AI is not used for cheating. The learning process and critical thinking are essential for lifelong success. Understanding how to prompt, interpret, and refine AI-generated content is a skill in itself,” said Mr Cameron. 

While AI can streamline tasks and summarise information efficiently, students are taught to approach its outputs with caution. AI can be a powerful tool, especially in areas like coding, but it’s only as effective as the person using it.  

Through the AI Passport,  is helping our current generation of students to better navigate AI, with greater confidence and deeper understanding.