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Free AI training comes to California colleges — but at what cost?

AI in Education EditorialUpdated June 2, 20261 min readRead source
Free AI training comes to California colleges — but at what cost?
🇺🇸US🏛️Administrators🎯Learning AI📚Computer Science👨‍🎓Students👩‍🏫Teachers+6 more

Join the conversation on California's future, May 21. GET YOUR TICKET Join us at the CalMatters Ideas Festival on May 21. 2026 Voter Guide Politics Immigration Housing Education Economy Environment California Voices Impact Events Students work in the library at San Bernardino Valley College on May 30, 2023. California education leaders are striking deals with tech companies to provide students with opportunities to learn AI.

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People Also Ask

What AI training do teachers need?
Teachers need training in: understanding AI concepts and limitations, practical use of classroom AI tools, prompt engineering to get useful outputs, evaluating AI for accuracy and bias, updating academic integrity practices, and teaching students to use AI responsibly. Most experts recommend starting with practical tool use before moving to technical fundamentals.
Where can teachers get AI training?
Teachers can access AI training through Google for Education, Microsoft Educator Center, ISTE, CoSN, their state department of education, and university extension programs. Many school districts now offer AI professional development days or coaching from instructional technology specialists. Online courses allow self-paced learning outside school hours.
Is AI training mandatory for teachers?
AI training is not yet universally mandated but is increasingly expected. Several US states have added AI professional development to teacher recertification requirements. The EU requires training for teachers using AI assessment tools under the AI Act. School districts that have deployed AI tools typically require at minimum a brief orientation.
How does AI training improve classroom outcomes?
Trained teachers use AI tools more effectively, with better prompting leading to higher-quality materials, and greater awareness of limitations preventing uncritical adoption of inaccurate outputs. Professional development studies show that teachers who receive structured AI training are more likely to integrate AI in ways that measurably improve student engagement and learning.