The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has developed an introductory module on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students in Classes 9 to 12, aligning it with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Announced on October 23, 2026, the initiative aims to strengthen students’ critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving abilities while helping them understand how AI works, its applications and limitations.
The module also emphasises responsible technology use, including data privacy, misinformation, fairness, digital safety and verification of AI-generated information. According to NCERT, the learning material uses discussions, practical exercises, experimentation and reflection, with activities designed to work both with and without digital devices.
Learning Beyond Devices
The module introduces computational thinking as a systematic approach to identifying problems, breaking them into manageable parts and developing logical solutions. It is designed for students without prior knowledge of AI, making the subject accessible to learners who may have different levels of familiarity with emerging technologies.
Rather than focusing exclusively on using AI tools, the approach seeks to help students understand how these systems operate, where they can be useful and what their limitations are. NCERT has stated that the module promotes experiential, activity-based learning through classroom discussions, practical tasks, experimentation and reflection. Its activities can be conducted with or without digital devices, potentially allowing schools with different levels of technological infrastructure to participate.
The council said the module aims to help students become “informed, confident, and responsible users of technology”. It further emphasised that “human judgement, creativity, and ethical responsibility remain central to learning”. This approach places reasoning and independent thought alongside technical understanding, rather than treating familiarity with digital tools as the sole measure of AI literacy.
Building Digital Literacy
The introduction of the module follows the broader push to integrate computational thinking and AI into school education under NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. These policy frameworks seek to move learning beyond rote memorisation and encourage students to develop practical skills, independent reasoning and the ability to apply knowledge to real-world situations. The Ministry of Education has also outlined efforts to incorporate computational thinking and AI into school education through NCERT and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
In April 2026, then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched CBSE’s computational thinking and AI curriculum for Classes 3 to 8 for the 2026–27 academic session. The government’s broader initiative seeks to introduce these concepts progressively, with an emphasis on logical reasoning, pattern recognition, problem-solving and ethical technology use.
For older students, the newly developed NCERT module addresses concerns that have become increasingly relevant as AI-generated content becomes more accessible. Students are encouraged to consider questions of privacy, fairness and misinformation, while learning to verify information produced by AI systems instead of accepting it without scrutiny.
The focus on digital safety and responsible use is particularly important in an environment where fabricated images, misleading information and inaccurate AI-generated answers can circulate widely. However, the effectiveness of the module will depend on how it is implemented in classrooms, how teachers are supported and whether students get sufficient opportunities to apply these principles in practical situations.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
ntroducing AI education in schools can help students develop essential skills for an increasingly digital world. However, equal access, adequate teacher training and a strong focus on critical thinking, privacy and responsible use are vital to ensure technology supports learning rather than replaces independent judgement. How can schools help students embrace AI while learning to question it responsibly?
Think Smart. Create with AI. Learn Responsibly. NCERT introduces an introductory module on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Grades 9-12, aligned with the vision of NEP-2020 Designed for beginners, the module encourages critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving through hands-on, activity-based learning with or without digital devices. It also highlights the ethical and responsible use of AI, including data privacy, fairness, digital safety and fact-checking. Empowering learners to navigate the AI-driven future with confidence, creativity and responsibility. #NCERT #ArtificialIntelligence #ComputationalThinking #NEP2020 #DigitalLearning #AIinEducation
— NCERT (@ncert) October 23, 2026
