stclarke presents an overview of Microsoft’s Hour of AI initiative, highlighting resources and activities that help educators and students engage with AI coding concepts during Computer Science Education Week 2025.

Hour of AI: Microsoft Launches Global AI Literacy Initiative for Computer Science Education Week 2025

Microsoft has launched the Hour of AI initiative, a global program for Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek) 2025, aimed at making AI learning accessible and engaging for all students and educators.

Overview

Hour of AI is designed to:

  • Provide free, age-appropriate resources and activities for classrooms and learners worldwide
  • Spark curiosity and develop foundational skills in Artificial Intelligence
  • Empower up to 25 million learners to explore, understand, and create with AI
  • Support educators with training and ready-to-use lesson plans

Microsoft partners with organizations such as CSforALL and Code.org to reach students of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Activities and Learning Resources

1. Minecraft Hour of AI: The First Night

2. Bug Arena from MakeCode

  • Game-based tutorial where students design coded algorithms for bugs that then compete in an arena
  • Focuses on coding, problem-solving, and understanding AI through interactive competition
  • Suitable for grades 3–8
  • Get the Bug Arena lesson

3. Slither Slam from Visual Studio Code for Education

  • Game-based AI coding lesson aimed at high school learners (grades 9–12)
  • Students use natural language prompts to generate code for a classic Snake game and compete against other AI-driven snakes
  • Encourages experimentation with AI-generated code and prompt engineering
  • Access Slither Slam resources

Additional Programs

  • Microsoft Elevate: Year-round resources and programs to help teachers bring AI into classrooms globally
  • AI Skills for Educators: Free training and resources on AI literacy
  • Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIEE) Program and Showcase Schools Program: Professional development and global collaboration opportunities for educators

How to Participate

  • Download lesson plans and educator guides for each Hour of AI activity
  • Join the initiative during CS Ed Week (Dec. 8–14, 2025) or use resources year-round
  • Bring AI experiences into classrooms, after-school programs, or at home
  • Learn more and get started with Hour of AI

Visual Highlights

  • Activities include interactive graphics, game-based learning, and collaborative student challenges.

Microsoft’s Hour of AI initiative supports teachers, caregivers, and students in exploring the foundational concepts of AI, coding, and algorithmic thinking in a fun and inclusive environment.

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