Purdue offers one-day AI workshop for middle school teachers
Purdue University will host a professional development workshop on July 23 for Indiana STEM educators teaching grades 6-8, featuring hands-on training with LEGO Education Computer Science & AI kits. The one-day program, titled "Brick by Brick: Bringing AI to the Classroom," will be held at Purdue's West Lafayette campus.
Faculty from Purdue's College of Science and LEGO Education facilitators will lead sessions on practical applications of artificial intelligence, coding, and robotics. Teachers will receive classroom-ready lesson plans and LEGO materials to take back to their schools.
The workshop targets middle school teachers specifically because that's when students form foundational understanding of computer science concepts. Lucy Flesch, dean of the College of Science, said early exposure to AI helps students "see themselves as problem-solvers and creators."
Purdue is positioning this as part of its broader effort to prepare students for an AI-driven workforce. The university recently made an "AI working competency" a graduation requirement for all undergraduate students.
What teachers will get
- Hands-on training in AI, coding, and robotics applications
- LEGO Education materials for classroom use
- Lesson plans ready to implement immediately
- Training from Purdue faculty and LEGO facilitators
Registration details
The workshop is limited to 60 participants. Indiana STEM educators serving grades 6-8 can register at go.purdue.edu/LEGO-event.
Educators interested in AI for Education or exploring an AI Learning Path for Teachers can also consider broader professional development options beyond this single-day event.
Alexander Mitchell, vice president of LEGO Education in the US, said the partnership reflects the company's belief that hands-on learning develops problem-solving and collaboration skills students need in technology roles.
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