Starting this fall, Beijing schools will make artificial intelligence (AI) a mandatory subject from primary to high school. The Beijing Municipal Education Commission has mandated at least eight hours per academic year dedicated to AI fundamentals.
Schools can offer standalone courses or integrate AI into existing subjects like science and information technology.
Primary students (ages 6-12) will focus on practical exercises to understand AI operations, while older students will learn about AI applications in education and daily life. High school students will explore the intersection of AI applications and innovation.
While other regions like California and Italy are also exploring AI education, Beijing's mandatory approach marks a significant step in prioritizing AI literacy.