About
Lydia Cao
Assistant Professor, University of Toronto
Ex-Harvard Postdoc
Cambridge PhD
While companies race to sell AI solutions, I am building something different — a space for school communities to think and talk via play.
Why did I create the AI decks?
Hi, my name is Lydia Cao.
You probably already know that students are using AI. The following numbers just confirm our hunch: the reported use of AI for schoolwork is now widespread across educational levels.
AI Guidelines Deck started as a tool for my own classroom — a way to help students navigate AI through play and dialogue. Then colleagues in my department asked to use it. Then educators at other schools whom I'd never met. Then professors at universities. Then principals and leaders.
Everyone kept saying, "We need this. Where can we get it?" That is when I realized this tool needed to go further than academia.
I hope these cards can meet you where you are and help your community move forward together.
Students in my class playing with early iterations of the AI Guidelines deck
Stay in touch
I’m always open to new ideas and collaborations. Whether you have questions about the deck or want to discuss AI in schools, feel free to reach out.
Lydia Cao
ly.cao@utoronto.ca