AI Education
AI education
AI Education at Olive Kindergarten
Empowering children with the skills they need for tomorrow.
1. Why AI education from early childhood?
By the time children born in the 21st century become adults, it is predicted that AI and robots will handle many of society's jobs. We already see AI all around us in our daily lives—through smart speakers, service robots, and self-checkout counters. To thrive in this future, the essential requirements are not just basic IT skills, but creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
2. Features of Olive's AI education
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Learning that captures the "sensitive periods" that are valued in Montessori education.
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Experiential education through play and inquiry, rather than rote memorization or forced learning.
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We also emphasize proper device usage and etiquette.
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AI education conducted entirely in English (instruction by native English-speaking teachers)
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Bilingual Montessori teachers nurture each child's creativity.
3. Olive's track record
Our AI curriculum was planned over a decade ago and has evolved alongside the digital era. We are one of the very few schools in Japan to offer a fully English-based AI program starting from age four. This optional after-school class is incredibly popular, with over 70% of our four-year-olds enrolled this year.
We also offer elementary classes, allowing students to continue their journey after graduation. Through age-appropriate programming and curricula, we support our students as they naturally progress to the next level of learning.
4. Curriculum Overview
Olive’s AI Education is about more than just acquiring knowledge and technical skills. By using the latest technology, children learn to think for themselves, innovate, and collaborate with their peers. Our goal is to nurture the "skills for the future"—creativity, independence, and the ability to work effectively with others.
1. Proper use and etiquette of devices
For children, digital devices are more than just toys; they are essential tools for learning. At Olive, we teach students how to use iPads and tablets safely and responsibly from the very beginning. Beyond just basic operation, children learn the essentials of the digital age—including privacy protection, online etiquette, and the proper handling of photos and recordings. This is the first step in developing the ability to manage information correctly.
2. Creative activities (ChatGPT, DALL·E, Quiver, Viscuit)
In our AI-driven creative activities, we focus on the process of bringing ideas to life, not just having fun. Whether creating stories with ChatGPT or generating art with DALL·E, children learn through trial and error to bridge the gap between their imagination and the final result. By exploring these tools like play, they naturally develop inventiveness, self-expression, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
3. Programming (Magformer, LEGO Education, Scratch Jr.)
Programming is the "new language" essential for the future. At Olive, we avoid complex text and symbols, teaching in a way that children can understand intuitively. By building shapes with Magformers and LEGO or animating characters in Scratch Jr., children develop the ability to logically organize and execute their own ideas. Through play, they naturally build the logical thinking and problem-solving skills they need for life.
5. Olive's Vision for the Future
We hope to see our children grow into leaders who think for themselves, create, and shape their own futures. The AI Education program at Olive Kindergarten ensures they take that first step with confidence.
