In a recent discussion at Southside High School, students shared insights from their innovative prompt engineering class, highlighting the importance of understanding artificial intelligence (AI) and its ethical implications. The class, which focuses on crafting effective prompts to optimize AI outputs, is designed to prepare students for a future where AI plays a significant role in various fields.

Students like Jason, who plans to pursue cybersecurity law, emphasized that prompt engineering is not just about technical skills but also about the ethical use of AI. The curriculum begins with discussions on ethics, which students initially found surprising but later recognized as essential for responsible AI usage. This foundational knowledge aims to prevent the misuse of AI technologies in harmful ways.

One notable project involved creating a children's book using AI, where students learned the importance of refining prompts to achieve desired outcomes. Kotori, a student in the class, explained that the process requires multiple iterations to perfect both the story and illustrations generated by AI. This hands-on experience illustrates the trial-and-error nature of working with AI tools.

The students collectively acknowledged that proficiency in AI and prompt engineering is becoming increasingly vital in both academic and professional settings. As Chase pointed out, understanding how to code AI responsibly is crucial to ensure it functions within ethical boundaries. The skills learned in this class are expected to give students a competitive edge in a job market that increasingly values technological literacy.

Southside High School is expanding its computer science offerings, including AP Computer Science Principles and a new AP cybersecurity course set to launch next year. This initiative reflects a commitment to equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate a future where AI and technology are integral to various careers.

Overall, the discussions from the meeting underscore the significance of integrating ethical considerations into AI education, preparing students not only to use these technologies effectively but also to understand their broader societal impacts. As AI continues to evolve, the skills gained in prompt engineering and related courses will be essential for the next generation of leaders and innovators.