Richmond, BC – In an extraordinary feat, and out of the 32 participating countries, totalling thousands of entries, Pythagoras Academy’s “A.I. Investigation & Exploration Club,” led by the Director of Instructional Innovation Ms. Briana Bolt and assisted by coach presentation expert Mr. Benjamin Hagwood, secured the top spot in the WAICY elementary #AI Showcase Track. The winning project, an ASL Translator App isn’t just a technological breakthrough; it’s a visionary response to real-world challenges. As the club noted in their presentation, “The World Health Organization predicts that by 2050, almost 2.5 billion people will experience some level of hearing loss.”

This triumph not only highlights the technical fluency of Richmond’s young minds, but also signifies a commitment to addressing real, tangible global issues using technology. As #AI frequently treads the delicate balance between inspiring wonder and warranting caution, this project epitomizes the amazing capabilities inherent in technology. Beyond its technical merits, the ASL Translator App underscores a dedication to breaking communication barriers and fostering inclusivity in a world. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence, responsible use is paramount. As we celebrate this success, it’s crucial to collectively ensure that technological advancements contribute positively to society. Educational institutions worldwide are grappling with the question of whether and how to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their curriculum. Ms. Bolt, however, suggests a perspective shift: “I’m so proud to be part of a school community that embraces new tech and risk taking. Rather than viewing Artificial Intelligence as a tool that we prohibit or disregard in education, I look at it as an exciting opportunity where it can have a positive impact and be used in ways that are meaningful and purposeful in teaching and learning.” 

Congratulations to the A.I. after-school club champions – Grade 5 students Chloe, Jasper, Julie, and Vivian – along with Director Ms. Bolt. This achievement not only solidifies expertise and exploration in Artificial Intelligence, but also sets a standard for ethical innovation.

Extra notes: 

https://www.waicy.org/waicy-2023/
Competition date: Dec. 2-3 Winners announced on Dec. 4th and posted on the WAICY Website.
Competition track that the club participated in: AI Showcase Track “Create a project that showcases an AI solution for a real-world problem.”