Computing // Artificial Intelligence

AI and the Environment

AI needs huge amounts of energy and water to train; data centres and their environmental cost; but AI can also help — predicting weather, monitoring deforestation, optimising energy; trade-offs

Ages
9 to 11
Type
Concept
Builds on
3 topics
Leads to
1 topic

Quick check

Could the learner explain that AI needs a lot of energy to work but can also be used to help protect the environment, and discuss whether the trade-off is worth it?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Explain that training AI models uses a lot of electricity and water
  • Give at least two examples of AI being used to help the environment
  • Describe the trade-off between AI's environmental cost and its environmental benefits

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

3 topics
  • Machine Learning BasicsRequired

    Artificial Intelligence // Ages 7 to 9

    Must understand training requires computation before grasping its environmental cost

  • Climate Change BasicsHelpful

    Science // Weather & Climate // Ages 9 to 11

    Cross-domain: climate change awareness (Weather & Climate) enriches understanding of AI's environmental costs and benefits

  • Designing Fair AI RulesHelpful

    Artificial Intelligence // Ages 9 to 11

    Responsible design thinking extends to environmental considerations

You are here

AI and the Environment

Ages 9 to 11 // Concept

Leads to

1 topic
  • The Future of AIHelpful

    Artificial Intelligence // Ages 9 to 11

    Environmental trade-offs inform future AI decisions

Computing // Artificial Intelligence

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