Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) necessitates an educational paradigm shift that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. This paper explores the implementation of Genius Hour in K-12 Social Studies as a means to foster these essential skills. By allowing students to engage in inquiry-based, student-directed learning, Genius Hour aligns with 21st-century educational goals and prepares students for future academic and civic endeavors. The paper discusses the benefits, implementation strategies, challenges, and methods for measuring the success of Genius Hour, concluding with a call to action for educators to adopt this transformative approach.