Putnam County School District - Shaping the Future

In April of last year, a group of passionate middle school science teachers embarked on a transformative journey into the world of artificial intelligence (AI). Their adventure began with a simple registration to join a cohort hosted by the University of Florida. It aimed at equipping middle school teachers with the tools and knowledge to integrate AI into their science curriculum, specifically using artificial intelligence to identify fossil shark teeth. 

This project was possible due to the $1.3 million National Science Foundation grant received by the Scientist in Every Florida School team, the University of Florida College of Education, the UF Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, and the St Mary’s College of Maryland. Click here for more details about the project.

Putnam County is honored to have Mr. Keith Cohen, a dedicated science teacher from Crescent City Jr/Sr High School, representing our community among the esteemed middle school teachers selected for this transformative project.

The cohort started in July 2023 with a week-long training at the University of Florida. Throughout the week, teachers participated in various workshops and seminars designed to enhance their knowledge and skills in AI. They learned about cutting-edge AI technologies like neural networks and deep learning algorithms. They explored practical strategies for integrating AI concepts into their science curriculum to meet their Science Standards. “During these programs, Florida teachers learn to use a branch of AI called “machine learning,” to teach computers how to use shape, color, and texture to identify the teeth of the extinct giant shark megalodon. They work alongside scientists and engineers to create customizable, standards-based lesson plans to bring back to their classrooms.” 

The most valuable aspect of the week was the opportunity for the teachers to collaborate with their peers and experts at the University of Florida. Through brainstorming sessions, group discussions, and collaborative projects, they shared ideas, exchanged insights, and worked together to plan how to incorporate their newfound knowledge of AI into their classrooms.

Throughout the school year, the teachers engaged the students in a series of modules designed to teach them about AI and deepen their understanding of its potential impact on science. The modules provided a comprehensive overview of the field, from exploring the fundamentals of machine learning to delving into the ethical implications of AI technologies. “It was great to see how excited the kids were in all of the modules and to hear them admit they actually had fun learning.  We were able to build upon this enthusiasm to truly have the students embrace the possibilities that AI offers and the potential for misuse if humans do not hone their critical thinking skills. One student created a shark tooth model that worked better than the one that the workshop teachers created in class. After the modules, all participants, including teachers, had a much deeper understanding of the benefits and risks that AI presents. This is crucial to the management of this resource in the future,”, said Mr. Keith Cohen.

As part of the program, teachers could invite guest speakers into their classrooms so the students could interact with experts in the field of AI. Mr. Cohen invited Victor Perez, PhD Visiting Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. During this memorable session, Dr. Perez shared his expertise and fielded questions from the eager students. The session with Dr. Perez served as a valuable opportunity for students to expand their knowledge, ask questions, and gain insights from leading professionals in the field.

The culmination of the year-long journey came to a closing project: the students creating their own machine learning model. Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, the teachers collaborated with their students to develop and train their AI models, applying what they had learned throughout the program to real-world scenarios in the classroom.

As the school year ends, the teachers will gather in June to reflect on their experiences and share their successes. Each teacher will have the opportunity to showcase the impact of AI on their students' learning experiences, demonstrating the transformative power of technology in the classroom and paving the way for future AI integration.

For these middle school science teachers, the year-long adventure with AI was not just about learning new concepts or mastering new skills. It was about igniting a passion for discovery, fostering curiosity, and empowering students to participate actively in the ever-evolving world of science and technology. As they look to the future, these educators are excited to continue their journey with AI, inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and lifelong learners.

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