Exploring Everyday Challenges with AI at NAISNY
At Nord Anglia International School New York (NAISNY), we believe that education extends beyond the classroom. Our recent field trip, where we took all of our students from Year 1 to Year 9 to Google's New York City office, is a testament to this belief. As part of one of three Nord Anglia MIT projects, this initiative explores how AI can help solve everyday challenges, inspiring students to generate new and better solutions.
Being a small school nestled in the heart of New York City, we are uniquely positioned to tap into the vibrant resources our community offers. By leveraging local connections and the expertise of our community members, we've been able to provide our students with learning experiences that ignite their passions and broaden their horizons.
A Unique Opportunity with Google NYC
Thanks to one of our school parents, Lauren Taralli, an AI Data Science Director at Google, our students from Year 1 to Year 9 had the extraordinary opportunity to visit Google's innovative space. Guided by our science teacher and MIT lead, Jason Reardon, the trip showcased the intersection of technology and creativity.
When our students walked into Google's innovative space, they were immediately immersed in a world where technology and creativity converge. The energy was palpable as they explored interactive workspaces and witnessed the possibilities that artificial intelligence holds.
Students interacted with Google's AI model, Gemini, to enhance their understanding of product design and creativity. They learned to craft precise prompts and applied these skills directly to their projects for the Nord Anglia MIT Challenge. This hands-on experience emphasised collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application of technology—core elements of our educational philosophy.
Highlights from the Visit
· Research & Prompting: Students used AI to conduct in-depth research, enhancing their eco-friendly product designs.
· Advertising Innovation: Leveraging AI, students developed compelling visuals and taglines, refining their marketing strategies.
· Market Feedback Analysis: Students used AI to interpret trends and consumer preferences, which is crucial for successful product development.
Reflections and Real-World Connections
The impact of this trip was profound. Students discovered new ways AI can improve everyday tasks, sparking their curiosity and creativity. Their reflections showed a deep appreciation for the experience and the skills they acquired.
Student Reflections on Educational Trips
1. Exploring AI with MIT:
- “Year 5/Grade 4 Student: "I enjoyed sharing my MIT invention ideas because I was able to see what AI had to offer, and I was able to get some ideas on how to improve it. Gemini gave my group advice on how to expand our creations and make them fit other people’s needs."
2. Discovering the World of AI:
- “Year 6/Grade 5 Student: "This opens my eyes to the world of AI and all of its capabilities. We learned how to use Gemini not just for basic things like math questions but also for ideas on how we can make things better. They taught us how to make marketing ads and bar charts. I took away so much from it, but one thing really interested me; it was the bar charts."
- “Year 6/Grade 5 Student: "The lady (Sydney) showed us a picture of S’more Pop Tarts, and we had to come up with ideas of how to make the picture into an ad for a magazine. I really enjoyed that! I liked that activity the most because I really enjoy creating things and modifying things to make them better. I modify things like clothes to make them fit better or to make them look better when I’m sewing, so this was my sort of thing."
- “Year 6/Grade 5 Student: "I liked how they did a survey with things that lots of people like and asked Gemini to help us organize our work in a neater way. They showed us two ways to do it: a heat map and a bar model. They also did a great job of explaining things in a way that kids can understand."
The Power of Local Engagement in Education
These experiences highlight the invaluable role that community engagement plays in education:
· Real-World Connections: Students see firsthand how their learning applies beyond the classroom, enhancing engagement and understanding.
· Inspiration and Aspiration: Interacting with professionals in various fields inspires students to explore potential career paths and pursue their passions.
· Collaborative Learning: Working alongside experts and peers fosters teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
One of our promises at NAISNY is that through our unique collaborations with prestigious institutions like MIT, Juilliard and UNICEF, as well as strong local community partnerships, students will engage with real-world problems. This approach fosters conscious and creative individuals ready to make positive changes in our community.
As Mr. Reardon says – “This trip demonstrates that a school's size does not limit its capacity to provide exceptional learning experiences. By embracing our community and the opportunities it presents, we create a rich, engaging educational environment where students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and dream big.”
