AI Integration in Ras Al Khaimah Schools through Revamped Curriculum and Teacher Education

In the vibrant city of Ras Al Khaimah, the Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) is spearheading an innovative initiative in collaboration with Google. The aim is to host a coding and AI hackathon, an exciting event that promises to make artificial intelligence a lasting part of the learning process.

Nasiba Alrawi, Manager of Innovation and Technology at RAK DOK, shared her vision for the project. Alrawi, who is also a dedicated reporter from Ras Al Khaimah, is passionate about connecting with people and highlighting what truly matters to them. Her vision is to empower teachers and students, ensuring they are future-ready and confident in using AI responsibly.

Eight private schools in Ras Al Khaimah are piloting AI and robotics programs, integrating them into classroom lessons. To ensure a smooth transition, teachers are first trained on AI tools themselves before guiding students. The training focuses on ethical use to ensure AI supports learning and does not promote copy-paste practices.

The hackathon is still in development, but it is clear that its purpose is multifaceted. It aims to provide students and educators with practical experience in AI problem-solving, encouraging innovation and keeping up with education technology trends in Ras Al Khaimah.

The event will feature categories such as sustainability and competitions for schools and universities. It is one of the ways RAK DOK promotes hands-on innovation beyond the curriculum.

In Arabic schools, one hour per week is dedicated to AI fundamentals, while in British schools, AI is embedded within computer science lessons and incorporated into other subjects. This approach ensures that students are exposed to AI in a variety of contexts, fostering critical thinking skills.

Competitions are used to sustain student engagement and make AI a continuous part of the learning process. Students are encouraged to use AI for problem-solving, such as using robots to illustrate mathematical concepts.

However, the specific names of the students and teachers participating in the upcoming AI hackathon have not been publicly disclosed in the available sources. The priority, as Alrawi stated, is to train teachers on how to responsibly use artificial intelligence before fully integrating it into classrooms.

The hackathon is part of the goal to encourage innovation and bring the community's voices to life, reflecting Alrawi's dedication to sharing stories that highlight what truly matters. With the support of Google, RAK DOK is set to make a significant impact in the education landscape of Ras Al Khaimah.

AI Integration in Ras Al Khaimah Schools through Revamped Curriculum and Teacher Education