This is Vancouver What are Vancouver schools doing about AI and fake news?
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Jan 13, 2026 In this enlightening discussion, Pedro da Silva, Associate Superintendent at the Vancouver School Board, and Mark Permain, Superintendent of Surrey School District, tackle the challenges of AI and misinformation in education. They explore Vancouver and Surrey's innovative digital literacy strategies, emphasizing critical thinking and student engagement. With unique programs for grades 4–9, they highlight the importance of teaching students to evaluate information sources and the active role students play in shaping their own learning. Both guests express optimism about the future of media literacy in schools.
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Early National Media Literacy Works
- Finland built media literacy into its national curriculum starting in the 1990s, teaching children skills like analyzing media and spotting disinformation from age three.
- British Columbia lacks a national mandate, so digital literacy varies by province and depends on local curriculum choices.
Run And Record Live Digital Literacy Sessions
- Surrey ran a two-year online Digital Literacy program for grades 4–9 with live sessions for teachers and students to teach about AI, bias, and misinformation.
- Record sessions and publish them so students, teachers, and parents can access lessons asynchronously.
Students Led An AI Conference
- Vancouver held a student-created conference where 18 schools participated and students debated AI pros and cons, even making adults the debate targets.
- Pedro da Silva described panelists who were influencers and students taking the lead in shaping discussions about social media and AI.