A group of students at Princeton High School creates an AI-powered robot named Che’w to preserve the endangered Mam language, showcasing the positive impact of AI in education and cultural preservation.
Princeton High School Students Create AI-Powered Robot to Preserve Indigenous Language
At Princeton High School, a group of students is combating the decline of the indigenous Mam language using an AI-powered robot named Che’w. Che’w, a plush toy, is equipped with generative AI and trained to speak Mam, a Mayan language spoken in Guatemala and Mexico. The Mam language is at risk of extinction according to UNESCO, and the students aim to help preserve it through this innovative approach.
Despite growing concerns over AI in education, Princeton High is embracing the technology. Dr. Joy Barnes-Johnson, the science administrator for the school, noted that they plan to host an AI summit to discuss its educational use.
In contrast, schools like New York City public schools initially banned AI tools such as ChatGPT to prevent cheating and the spread of misinformation. However, some districts like LAUSD have evolved to integrate AI-based tools like “Ed,” a chatbot advisor.
Beyond generative AI, other high schools are also leveraging AI for educational and societal benefits. At STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado, students developed Project Deer, an AI-powered wildlife detection system aiming to reduce car crashes. They plan to collaborate with the University of Colorado to enhance the project’s success.
This focus on AI in education is evident in competitions like Samsung’s annual Solve for Tomorrow contest, where Princeton High and STEM School Highlands Ranch have been recognized for their AI innovations.
At Princeton High, the creation of Che’w involved around 14 students working extensively to develop its capabilities. The robot can communicate in Mam, Spanish, and English, providing a patient and tireless learning companion. Che’w was named one of the top three National Winners in the Samsung Solve For Tomorrow competition in April.
Mark Eastburn, a teacher at Princeton High, emphasized that AI is integral to students’ present and future, highlighting the importance of early and appropriate integration in education.
