Anthropic, Microsoft and OpenAI fund new school to educate teachers on using AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) companies are making strides in bringing AI technology to schools across the United States. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) recently announced the launch of the National Academy for AI Instruction, a $23 million initiative supported by Anthropic, Microsoft, and OpenAI, key players in the generative AI movement.
In a statement, AFT President Randi Weingarten emphasized the importance of maintaining the essential connection between teachers and students while leveraging technology to enhance the learning experience. She highlighted the potential for AI to improve teaching and learning when utilized responsibly and with proper guidance.
The funding for the academy includes $10 million from OpenAI over five years, $12.5 million from Microsoft, and $500,000 from Anthropic for the first year. The training program will provide educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively incorporate AI into their classrooms in a safe and ethical manner. Workshops, online courses, and hands-on training sessions will be offered, developed by AI experts and educators.
The inaugural courses will commence this fall at the United Federation of Teachers’ facility in Manhattan, with plans to establish additional hubs across the country by 2030. AFT aims to provide free virtual training to its 1.8 million members, starting with K-12 educators. The goal is to train 400,000 educators, approximately 10% of the U.S. teaching workforce, at the physical facility over the next five years.
“Our objective is to empower teachers to master AI tools effectively,” said Randi Weingarten in an interview with CBS MoneyWatch.
