CBSE mandates computational thinking and AI for Classes 3 to 8
The Central Board of Secondary Education has ordered all affiliated schools to integrate computational thinking and artificial intelligence into their curriculum for Classes 3 to 8 beginning the 2026-27 academic year.
The structured curriculum aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. It aims to build logical thinking, systematic problem-solving, pattern recognition, and understanding of ethical AI use among students.
Three types of required activities
Schools must conduct district-level deliberations (DLDs)-offline one-day workshops where groups of schools collaborate to share classroom practices on computational thinking and AI. Each workshop counts as six hours of continuing professional development.
Expert-led talks, either online or offline and lasting half a day, count as three CPD hours. Regional workshops organized by CBSE's Centres of Excellence require a Rs700 registration fee per teacher.
How DLDs will work
Up to 16 schools can present case studies during each DLD, with presentations lasting 25 minutes. An appreciation committee-including an external computational thinking or AI educator from a college or university and two experienced principals or teachers-will select the top three papers from each district.
The best papers nationally will be showcased at the National Teachers Conference, assessed by sub-theme.
Seven focus areas
- Basics of computational thinking and AI readiness
- Advanced pedagogy for computational thinking in Classes 3 to 8
- Mathematics as the foundation of computational thinking and AI
- Interdisciplinary connections at the middle stage
- AI in real-world applications
- Assessment strategies
- Ethics and responsible use of AI
DLDs can begin from April 2026. Centres of Excellence must submit a six-month plan to CBSE headquarters by May 1.
Teachers looking to develop expertise in this area can explore AI for Education and AI for Teachers resources to strengthen their instructional capabilities.
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