Edmonton students attend new AI conference for high schoolers

Edmonton Public Schools held an artificial intelligence conference on Wednesday for local high school students.

Nearly 300 Edmonton high school students attended the first-ever Student Artificial Intelligence Conference at the Fantasyland Conference Centre on Wednesday.

The conference was organized by Edmonton Public Schools in partnership with the Technology Integration and Planning Supports to give students the opportunity to learn about real-world AI applications and the potential career paths within the industry.

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Student AI conference chair Bernice Pui told CTV News Edmonton how students will get the chance to engage in hands-on activities, watch presentations and network with industry and post-secondary experts.

“We’re hoping (the students) are going to come away with an understanding of AI literacy, including ethics and considerations responsible use of AI and knowing real-world AI applications,” said Pui on Wednesday.

“With all of that knowledge, it’s going to inspire them to learn more about AI and really look at careers or further study all of those pieces. Plus, it’s fun and cool,” she said.

The day consisted of four breakout sessions spread throughout the day where students could enroll in mini-sessions exploring various AI topics, such as the impacts on journalism and social media, machine learning, case studies, and enhancing healthcare using AI.

The one-day conference runs until 3:30 p.m.