Machine Hallucinations: Yandex Will Teach Students to Understand AI
Russia is rolling out a nationwide interactive lesson designed to teach students how modern AI systems work, why neural networks sometimes produce false information, and how to safely navigate a world filled with deepfakes and intelligent digital tools.
Teaching Students to Decode AI
Beginning November 24, 2025, Russian schools will launch a nationwide lesson on neural networks that turns complex technical concepts into accessible stories. The program, titled “The Case in the Chat: The Evolution of Neural Networks and Digital Safety,” offers a hands‑on journey into AI—complete with building personal AI assistants and tracking down deepfakes.
Students can complete the interactive modules online or in the classroom, with all materials available for free on the Lesson in Numbers platform. A video segment, featuring Yandex experts as guides, explains how machines interpret language and generate images from prompts.
But understanding technology is only half the challenge. A major component of the lesson focuses on digital self‑protection. Students learn why neural networks sometimes “hallucinate”—producing false information—and how to identify deepfakes. Critical thinking becomes a core digital skill.
Interactive Learning for All Ages
In the interactive section, students will design and train their own AI assistants. Alice AI, Yandex’s neural‑network model, serves as the mentor, explaining complex concepts in simple language. Tasks are divided by age so that both younger students and future graduates can participate meaningfully. Everyone receives a certificate upon completion—a first entry in their digital portfolio.
Teachers are also supported. Yandex has prepared step‑by‑step guides, visual presentations, and recommended lesson plans. The module can even be taught offline using printable worksheets if internet access is limited.
As major Russian IT companies continue expanding AI education, experts expect future lessons to cover machine learning, big data, and digital ethics. These programs may adapt to regional needs, ensuring that no student is left behind due to unequal school resources.
How AI Lessons Have Evolved
Tracing the evolution of the Lesson in Numbers program reveals a shift toward more specialized content. Just a few years ago, the lessons resembled broad digital‑literacy courses, offering basic IT skills to younger audiences.
In 2021, the focus was on introductory digital education. By 2022, the goal shifted to building foundational skills and helping students navigate IT career paths. A year later, discussions centered on algorithms and cloud technologies.
Students first engaged with AI agents in 2024 through interactive modules developed by the Contribution to the Future Foundation with support from Sber and GigaChat. Kaspersky Lab placed a strong emphasis on cybersecurity linked to AI, warning students about digital risks.
Today, the Lesson in Numbers project is run by the Digital Economy Autonomous Nonprofit Organization, the Ministry of Digital Development, and the Ministry of Education as part of Russia’s national program on digital‑skills development and the broader technological‑leadership initiative.
A Strategic Advantage for the Next Generation
Tatiana Trubnikova, Director of Digital Skills and Education at the Ministry of Digital Development, points out that the growth of AI makes responsible digital‑tool use essential. “By supporting initiatives like Lesson in Numbers, we help students develop strong digital‑hygiene habits and critical‑thinking skills—the foundation of personal cybersecurity,” she said.
For students, these lessons offer a glimpse into the future. Understanding neural networks provides a head start for entering one of the most in‑demand fields. Those who learn AI fundamentals today will have a real advantage when applying to colleges or pursuing IT pathways.
The initiatives also spark a chain reaction—leading to hackathons, student projects, and partnerships with technology companies. Education becomes a hands‑on, exploratory process where learners can immediately apply new skills and grow within an increasingly digital world.
