High school students, as scientists and engineers, use science ideas about waves, systems, and system models to answer the following driving question: Are autonomous cars a solution to the problem of distracted driving? Students analyze data about deaths from distracted driving and driver assistance technologies. Students also analyze data about public opinion in the United States about autonomous cars.

This lesson plan was created in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Wavelengths research public engagement program, the Johns Hopkins Office of Research, and Dr. Rama Chellappa based on his 2022 Wavelengths book, Can We Trust AI?

Click the Download PDF button above for the complete Lesson Plan.

Student Materials

Per Student

• Student Guide
• Can We Trust AI? 9th Grade Reading Level Text

Per Small Group (2 to 4 students)

• Computer or tablet to access videos and articles in Student Guide

Teacher Materials

• Sample Student Work
• Waymo: Diagram of Autonomous Car Components
• Johns Hopkins Wavelengths: Tuning In to Cutting-edge Sciences Landing Page