image_2025-07-11_14-00-11
The “Wild About AI” program has undergone a thoughtful evolution, transitioning from school visits by our staff into a comprehensive, standalone online resource. This strategic development empowers kaiako (educators) to confidently lead six engaging lessons on AI and conservation within their own classrooms. The refined lessons, approximately 60 to 90 minutes each, align with Te Mātaiaho New Zealand Curriculum. This ensures a seamless integration into existing educational frameworks.
It is specifically designed to be engaging and appropriate for ākonga (students) in Years 6 through 10. The cross-curricular nature allows for the integration of key learning areas such as the Core learning subjects literacy and numeracy, as well as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), environmental science, digital technologies, and social sciences. This versatility enables kaiako to address multiple curriculum objectives simultaneously.
A fundamental design principle of the revised “Wild About AI” programme is its teacher-friendly approach. Created by educators for educators, the program provides comprehensive resources, including detailed lesson plans to support the programme delivery. Each plan outlines the learning intention, success criteria, links to the New Zealand curriculum, and supplementary resources. This ensures that teachers have all the necessary tools readily available. The use of digital tools, opportunities for expert visits, and easy-to-use resources actively encourage collaborative learning among ākonga.
The “Wild About AI” program takes ākonga on a captivating six-lesson adventure, starting with the fundamentals of AI and Aotearoa’s unique marine biodiversity. This journey quickly moves from theory to practice, with hands-on activities around the Tapuae Marine Reserve and Spyfish Aotearoa. Ākonga also learn to build their own fish-identification AI models and undertake independent projects where they can creatively apply their new skills. The theory-to-practice progression ensures students not only learn about AI and conservation but also actively participate in it.
The program has an authentic Aotearoa flavour, incorporating Te Taiao from a Māori perspective and the principle of Kaitiakitanga (guardianship). By focusing on taonga (treasured) species, we connect scientific learning with New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage, making the experience deeply relevant and memorable.
The program has already sparked a genuine passion for stewardship, with 68% of the hundreds of students who have already tested it keen to continue learning about AI and conservation. We’ve seen ākonga, who once viewed AI as just a tool to do their homework, become advocates for ocean protection.
We now want to empower all students to become the kaitiaki and tech leaders of tomorrow. If you are interested in joining us, explore our demo and contact our team directly to secure your place.
