COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

The following AI resources can be found by visiting COSI.org.

COSI’s National Role in AI Education

COSI works at the intersection of public science education, workforce development, and community innovation. By connecting hands-on learning with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, COSI helps Americans understand how AI works and how it can be used responsibly to solve real-world challenges.

COSI’s national engagement in AI includes:

• Partnering with federal initiatives such as the White House AI Challenge to expand access to AI education.
• Serving as a national thought leader on public engagement with emerging technologies.
• Contributing to national conversations about AI education and workforce development through publications and collaborations.
• Supporting a national task force led by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to help museums, libraries, and schools engage the public in understanding artificial intelligence.

Through these efforts, COSI helps connect the dots between AI literacy, innovation, and community problem-solving, ensuring that Americans of all ages can participate in the AI-powered future.

 

Free AI Learning Resources from COSI

COSI provides a variety of free educational resources and programs designed to make AI understandable and accessible to the public.

 

AI Learning Through Emmy Award–Winning Educational Media

COSI produces engaging educational content designed to make complex scientific and AI concepts easy to understand.

Dr. B in 3

COSI’s short-form educational series breaks down complex topics—including artificial intelligence—into fast, engaging three-minute episodes designed for students, families, and educators. Each episode is paired with classroom-ready discussion guides and learning activities to extend the experience.

QED with Dr. B

Through its PBS program, COSI offers deeper explorations of science and AI topics, including ethical considerations, real-world applications, and emerging technologies.

Together, these programs help learners of all ages build confidence in understanding science and AI concepts.

 

Hands-On Innovation and AI Skills

EiPiC – Extracurricular Intellectual Property Innovation Center

Through the EiPiC program, students learn how to think like innovators and entrepreneurs. Participants explore:

• Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
• Intellectual property and invention
• Entrepreneurship and problem-solving

Students are encouraged to develop ideas that address real-world challenges and connect their projects to national initiatives such as the White House AI Challenge.

 

National STEM and AI Learning Kits

America 250 Learning Lunchbox

COSI developed the nation’s only America 250 STEM Learning Lunchbox, a hands-on educational kit distributed to students and families across the country.

Each Learning Lunchbox includes materials for multiple hands-on activities designed to introduce learners to scientific discovery, innovation, and AI concepts.

COSI distributes these kits nationwide in partnership with federal agencies and educational partners including:

• U.S. Department of Transportation
• U.S. Department of Defense
• NASA
• Educators and community organizations

To date, more than 400,000 Learning Lunchboxes have been distributed free of charge to students across the United States and internationally.

 

Workforce Development for the AI Era

HIVE – Human Innovation Experience

The HIVE program connects K–12 students with businesses, community organizations, and workforce development opportunities.

Participants develop critical skills needed in an AI-driven economy, including:

• Communication and collaboration
• Creativity and innovation
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Technology literacy

Through real-world projects and mentorship opportunities, HIVE prepares students to succeed in future AI-enabled careers.

 

Expanding AI Literacy Across America

COSI’s AI education initiatives aim to deliver measurable impact across the country.

 

National Goals

COSI is committed to:

• Reaching 10,000+ students and parents through AI career pathway and innovation programs
• Supporting student-led AI projects focused on solving community challenges
• Expanding partnerships with schools, educators, and families across the United States
• Strengthening connections between education, workforce development, and innovation ecosystems

 

Connecting Communities to the Future of AI

Artificial intelligence will shape nearly every industry and community in the decades ahead. COSI’s role is to ensure that all Americans—students, families, educators, and lifelong learners—have access to the knowledge and tools needed to participate in this future.

By combining hands-on science learning, national partnerships, and real-world problem solving, COSI serves as a national connector for AI literacy and community innovation—helping Americans understand not only how AI works, but how it can be used responsibly to improve lives and strengthen communities.