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Cultivate the Next Generation of Data Scientists and AI Leaders

WiDS Worldwide is dedicated to providing resources for upskilling, networking, mentorship, and growth opportunities for everyone, from students to seasoned professionals. We’re proud to announce the upcoming launch of the WiDS Human Edge™ Curriculum, designed to ensure the next generation of leaders can harness the power of AI with a foundation of human judgment and ethical leadership.

The NextGen Impact…

OVER

1100

Curriculum Downloads
IN OVER

85

Countries Worldwide
AND MORE THAN

50

Workshops Executed

WiDS Inspire – A NextGen Experience

WiDS Inspire helps learners see that data science is not just about using tools. It is about thinking critically, reasoning ethically, and creating solutions that respect people and communities.

The WiDS Inspire program introduces students to data science and AI through GenAI-assisted analysis of wildfire data. This anchors learning in real-world systems where critical thinking and ethical reasoning are essential.

two young girls looking at a laptop

“I never knew data science could be applied in other fields outside science. I feel like I belong in tech now.”

C. AndrewsData Empowerment Summit, Boston

The 7 Human Edge Dimensions

1

Critical Thinking

 

2

Foresight, Leadership & Social Influence

 

3

Creativity & Innovation

 

4

Adaptability & Learning Agility

 

5

Emotional Intelligence & Ethical Reasoning

 

6

Complex Problem-Solving

 

7

Communication & Storytelling

 

Curriculum Overview

Program Summary

The WiDS NextGen INSPIRE program introduces high school students to analytical thinking through GenAI-assisted data analysis using real emergency response data. This experience develops the WiDS Human Edge Curriculum (Critical Thinking, Complex Problem‑Solving, Creativity & Innovation, Emotional Intelligence & Ethical Reasoning, Adaptability & Learning Agility, Leadership & Social Influence, Communication & Story Telling)  skills through ethical data science, with no technical prerequisites required.

Students work with authentic wildfire emergency response data provided by WatchDuty and augmented by WiDS to analyze complex social systems and stakeholder impacts, building critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and AI collaboration capabilities essential for success in the era of AI. 

The core mission focuses on developing students’ ability to think systematically about complex problems, collaborate effectively with AI tools, and communicate findings responsibly to diverse audiences. 

 

The Dataset

The program uses authentic data from real wildfire events, provided by WatchDuty, providing rich complexity for analysis while remaining accessible to students from all academic backgrounds.

This dataset provides real-world complexity for analyzing system equity, resource allocation, and emergency response effectiveness while being accessible to non-technical students. Students understand from the beginning that they are working with data representing actual emergencies that affected real families and communities.

 

Learning Framework

WiDS Human Edge™ – in the AI/Data Science Lifecycle

  • Design
  • Collection
  • Exploration
  • Modeling
  • Deployment
  • Monitoring

Curriculum Modules

Module 1: Understanding the Problem Space

Module 2: AI-Assisted Deep Analysis

Module 3: Ethical Implications & Communication

Module 4: Communication & Persuasion 

Module 5: Synthesis & Future Applications 

 

Learning Outcomes

Students Will Master:

 

  • Advanced AI collaboration techniques for data analysis
  • Critical evaluation of AI-generated analysis and outputs
  • Systematic ethical analysis of data science applications
  • Audience-appropriate communication of complex information
  • Application of analytical thinking frameworks to personal and career decisions

Key Understanding: Students learn that data science encompasses systematic approaches to understanding complex problems and creating solutions that benefit communities while respecting stakeholder dignity and autonomy.

 

Questions about NextGen?

WiDS NextGen Collaborators and Supporters