Canada's AI-Ready Generation
Artificial intelligence is here. It’s now and it’s rapidly reshaping our world. From healthcare breakthroughs to transforming how we work, AI’s potential is immense. But are we ready?
Actua is building Canada’s AI-ready future today—laying the foundation for responsible AI leadership by equipping youth, educators, and parents with the necessary AI skills to thrive in this new era. Actua’s programming recognizes that AI skills aren’t narrowly technical. Our programming develops critical thinking, problem-solving and ethical decision-making abilities that are indispensable across all professions.
Building a responsible and equitable AI future requires more than just technical skills. Our comprehensive AI approach integrates cyber safety and ethical understanding into our training, empowering youth to critically evaluate AI systems and their impact. Investing in youth AI skills training is an investment in economic growth, responsible innovation, and Canada’s ability to compete on the world stage.
Ready for AI Survey Report
To learn how Canadians think and talk about AI, particularly as it relates to education, youth development and well-being, Actua commissioned two national surveys to be conducted among educators, youth and their parents/guardians.
We learned that Canadian youth are using AI, but while most believe they already use it effectively and responsibly, educators remain far less confident in their skills. Both agree, however, that AI knowledge is essential for future success, with strong support from parents as well. Yet many teachers feel unprepared to teach AI literacy due to limited resources and training.
Resources
For Educators
Designed to address social issues and current trends through STEM, Actua’s AI in Society activities series gives educators a chance to guide students in reflecting on the role of AI in society and building a well-rounded understanding of AI. Stay tuned for more activities!
Choose three activities for your grade level below and use them alongside the reflection journal to help students think critically about AI.
Actua collaborates with Microsoft Canada to support educators with the tools and experiences they need to help youth build the skills to thrive in an AI-powered world. Microsoft’s suite of AI education resources below offers practical and responsible ways to build AI understanding and skills in the classroom:
For Parents
Why AI?
Read the brief below to learn more about why AI skills matter for your child:
Tipsheet
Consult the tipsheet below for ways to help youth navigate the world with AI awareness:
You can find all our resources designed for parents below:
Learning HubActua and its network will deliver comprehensive and innovative AI training through hands-on workshops, summer camps, after-school programs, and impactful special events, reaching youth in every province and territory in Canada. We will also provide resources to help educators and parents introduce AI concepts to youth of any age.
Find an Actua network member near you for youth opportunities and teacher training.
Acknowledgements
Actua’s nationwide training initiative, fueled by strategic collaboration with Microsoft Canada and the generous support of the Government of Canada’s CanCode 4.0 program, is a pivotal step in building Canada’s AI-ready future.