Developing K-12 AI Literacy in Different Countries: Approaches and Challenges

Abstract

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly pervasive across sectors, AI literacy has emerged as foundational for K-12 learners worldwide. How are education systems around the world addressing this challenge? This panel brings together representatives from India, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the US to examine their strategies for advancing AI literacy through curriculum design, pedagogical innovation, professional development, and policy frameworks. The panelists will discuss their national approaches against the backdrop of initiatives such as India's AI Samarth program reaching over five million participants, Hong Kong's integration of AI modules into computational thinking curricula, Singapore's coordinated AI for Everyone strategy, Thailand's national AI curriculum development, Philippines’ pilot efforts with the Education Center for AI Research (E-CAIR), and the US’s 2025 executive order establishing AI education as a federal priority. Despite varied implementation pathways, shared challenges persist: preparing learners equitably, defining learning goals and developmentally appropriate AI concepts, addressing teacher readiness, aligning curricula with evolving frameworks, and ensuring that ethical dimensions receive adequate attention alongside technical competencies. Panelists will explore design principles, opportunities, and challenges in building inclusive, human-centered AI literacy that prepares students to thrive in an algorithmically mediated world.