Empowering High School Students with AI: A Practical Course on Healthcare Innovations Using Image Processing

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare presents both opportunities and challenges. To leverage these technologies for healthcare innovations, it is crucial to equip the next generation with the necessary skills. However, high school students often lack exposure to AI and its applications due to a scarcity of practical learning modules. To address this gap, we developed an 8-session learning module designed to introduce high school students to AI applications in healthcare, with a particular focus on image processing—a technological innovation that improves diagnostics, treatment, and patient outcomes. The course is structured into two phases: foundational skill development and small group projects. In the first phase, students with no prior coding experience engage in hands-on tasks to acquire essential Python coding skills. They learn machine learning, deep learning, and image processing basics, progressing from fundamental concepts to advanced topics using libraries like OpenCV. All image examples are healthcare-related, including X-rays, ultrasound, mammograms, dermatological images, and retinal imaging. In the second phase, students work in small groups to develop healthcare innovations, culminating in project proposals and pitching sessions. Acting as healthcare innovation developers, they present prototypes to professionals and funders, using design thinking to define research questions and apply image processing techniques. Preliminary results from a cohort of 16 students demonstrated significant positive outcomes. Students showed increased enthusiasm for AI and coding, with many expressing interest in further studies in these fields. Their understanding of image processing in healthcare contexts improved markedly. The final pitching sessions revealed the students' capacity to collaboratively and effectively present their innovative solutions. Next, we plan to refine and expand the course by including more students with diverse technological backgrounds and incorporating varied healthcare case studies. These steps will enhance the course's impact, preparing more students to address real-world healthcare challenges using AI technology.