Arizona's AI-Powered Online Charter School: A First in the US

A Novel Approach to Education: AI-Driven Learning at Unbound Academy

The Arizona State Board for Charter Schools has recently approved a unique educational institution: an online school where the entire academic curriculum will be delivered by artificial intelligence.

Charter schools, which are publicly funded but operate independently, generally possess considerable flexibility in their teaching methods. However, Unbound Academy’s proposal represents a significant departure from the norm.

Introducing Unbound Academy’s Innovative Model

Unbound Academy intends to utilize an “AI-driven adaptive learning technology” to streamline academic instruction. This technology aims to deliver core lessons within a condensed, two-hour timeframe.

The founders of Unbound Academy have previously implemented a comparable program at a private school in Texas, though that iteration involved in-person learning.

Leveraging Existing Edtech Platforms

The school’s methodology will incorporate established edtech resources like IXL and Khan Academy. Students will interact with “interactive, AI-powered platforms” designed to personalize the learning experience.

These platforms will continuously adapt to each student’s unique learning speed and preferred style.

The Role of Human Interaction

While AI will be central to instruction, human involvement isn’t entirely absent. Unbound Academy will employ a “human-in-the-loop” system.

“Skilled guides” will monitor student progress and offer “targeted interventions” and individualized coaching when needed. These guides may not necessarily be traditionally accredited teachers.

Beyond Core Academics: Life Skills Development

With academic instruction limited to two hours daily, the remaining school time will be dedicated to “life-skills workshops.”

These workshops will focus on crucial areas such as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, financial literacy, public speaking, goal setting, and entrepreneurship.

Target Student Group

Unbound Academy is designed to serve students in grades four through eight, offering a fully online educational experience.