Critical AI in Education Pathways 

Critical AI in Education Pathways is a self-paced, fully online professional learning micro-credential designed for educators who want to build critical AI literacy for teaching and learning. The course supports educators in understanding, questioning, and thoughtfully integrating AI in educational settings—while maintaining pedagogical purpose, professional judgment, and human agency. 

Rather than focusing on tools alone, this pathway emphasizes ethical decision-making, instructional design, and responsible classroom practice in an AI-enabled educational landscape. 

Is this Micro-Credential right for you?

Iowa State University’s Critical AI in Education Pathways was designed in collaboration with practicing teachers and faculty at Iowa State. It provides relevant, classroom-ready information and is designed specifically for:

  • K-12 classroom teachers seeking practical strategies to integrate AI while maintaining academic integrity and instructional purpose
  • Instructional coaches and curriculum specialist support AI-informed teaching, assessment, and professional learning
  • School and district leaders developing guidance, policies, or shared norms around AI use
  • Teacher educators and professional development providers preparing current and future teachers for critical AI engagement
  • Educators at all levels of AI experience, from beginners to those already experimenting with generative AI tools

Course Launch 

  • March 15, 2026
  • Fully Online
  • Self-Paced

Course at a Glance 

  • Format: Fully online, self-paced
  • Total Time: Approximately 20 to 25 hours
  • Experience Level: Beginner-friendly (no technical background required)

Modules 

  1. Foundations of Artificial Intelligence 
  2. Ethics of AI in Education
  3. Pedagogical Integration of AI
  4. AI Implementation and Educational Guidelines
  5. Human-Centered AI in Education

Learning Outcomes 

By the end of the course, participants will be able to: 

  • Distinguish core AI concepts and their implications for teaching and learning. 
  • Analyze ethical considerations, challenges, and implications associated with using AI in education. 
  • Examine how AI integration influences pedagogical practices, instructional roles, and assessment strategies for supporting student learning. 
  • Formulate school-based AI practices in relation to ethical guidelines and educational goals. 
  • Apply human-centered AI principles to examine how AI affects learner and educator agency and social responsibility. 

Micro-Credential and Digital Badge 

Educators who successfully complete all five modules and required assessments will earn the Critical AI in Education Pathways digital badge. This badge is a:

  • Stackable micro-credential 
  • Verifiable digital badge 
  • Designed to support professional learning and career advancement 

More information on micro-credentials can be found on CELT’s Website 

Project Director 

Evrim Baran, PhD 
Professor of Educational Technology & Human-Computer Interaction 
Helen LeBaron Hilton Chair 
School of Education, College of Health and Human Sciences, Iowa State University 

Dr. Baran leads research on the design and evaluation of technology-enhanced and AI-supported learning environments across K–12, higher education, and professional learning. Her work has produced widely used frameworks and professional learning models, informed policy and practice internationally, and received national and international recognition. 

For more information, please contact Dr. Evrim Baran (ebaran@iastate.edu).