NCERT Launches 20-Hour AI Module for Classes 9–12: Deepfakes, Data Privacy and Curriculum Details

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced a 20-hour introductory module on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students in Classes 9 to 12. The initiative aims to help school students understand how artificial intelligence works, recognise its limitations and use digital tools responsibly.

Developed by NCERT in consultation with experts from IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur, the activity-based module aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It introduces students to practical AI applications, misinformation, deepfakes, data privacy and responsible technology use without requiring prior knowledge of artificial intelligence.

What Is the NCERT AI Module for Classes 9–12?

The NCERT AI module is a 20-hour introductory learning resource designed to develop computational thinking, problem-solving and digital awareness among secondary and senior secondary students.

Rather than focusing only on technical definitions, the module encourages students to learn through classroom discussions, practical activities, experimentation and reflection. It also highlights the importance of checking AI-generated information instead of accepting every response as accurate.

According to the CBSE’s 2026 curriculum framework, the Classes 9–12 modules are intended to be used for internal assessment during the 2026–27 academic session. Students and schools should follow the latest official CBSE and NCERT instructions for implementation.

What Does the NCERT Artificial Intelligence Module Cover?

The module is divided into five units that introduce AI concepts and responsible technology use.

1. Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Life

Students explore how AI is used in familiar applications, including predictive text on smartphones and music recommendation systems. These examples help learners understand how AI identifies patterns and supports everyday tasks.

2. How Machines Learn

This unit explains how AI systems learn from examples and training data. Students can experiment with image classifiers to understand how machines identify objects and why the quality and variety of training data influence their performance.

3. When AI Gets It Wrong

A key part of the curriculum focuses on misinformation, deepfakes and AI hallucinations. Students learn why AI-generated responses can sound convincing even when they contain errors.

The unit also encourages learners to verify information before relying on it or sharing it online. These skills are increasingly important as AI-generated images, videos, audio and text become more common.

4. Data Privacy and Responsible AI Use

Students learn about personal information, consent, fairness and digital safety. The module introduces India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and encourages students to examine the privacy policies of applications they use.

It also warns against entering sensitive information, including Aadhaar and PAN numbers, passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs) and personal documents, into AI tools.

5. Using AI Tools Effectively

The final unit teaches students to create and refine prompts, evaluate AI-generated responses and correct inaccuracies. The emphasis is on using AI as a supporting tool rather than a replacement for independent thinking, creativity and human judgement.

How Will Schools Teach the New AI Module?

The suggested teaching plan covers 20 classroom hours. Activities can be conducted using individual or shared digital devices, teacher-led demonstrations or paper-based exercises and classroom discussions.

This flexible approach allows schools with limited internet connectivity or fewer digital devices to participate in the learning activities. The module prioritises practical understanding and critical thinking over memorising technical definitions.

How Does This Fit Into CBSE’s AI Curriculum?

The new module follows CBSE’s broader initiative to introduce computational thinking and AI concepts at earlier stages of school education. CBSE has also developed a structured curriculum framework for Classes 3 to 8, supporting the gradual development of these skills.

Together, these initiatives reflect a wider focus on preparing students to understand emerging technologies, evaluate digital information and make responsible decisions when using AI tools.

Conclusion

The new NCERT AI module for Classes 9 to 12 goes beyond introducing students to artificial intelligence. It focuses on practical AI literacy, critical thinking, deepfake awareness, data protection and responsible digital behaviour.

For students, the initiative provides an opportunity to understand both the possibilities and limitations of AI. For schools, it offers an activity-based approach to developing technology awareness while keeping independent thought, creativity and ethical responsibility central to learning.