The DataHaven Youth Advisory Council (DHYAC) has created a model for democratizing data and AI literacy by equipping young people with practical skills to interpret and apply data for participatory action research.

The DataHaven Youth Advisory Council (DHYAC) has created a model for democratizing data and AI literacy by equipping young people with practical skills to interpret and apply data. This year, an intergenerational team of 4 youth leaders and 1 teaching fellow is co-developing an AI/data literacy curriculum for 15+ students across the New Haven area. Meeting in third spaces like libraries and community centers, students learn to work with data and conduct participatory action research, culminating in projects that apply data—whether activism initiatives, community surveys, legislative testimony, or research booklets. Through participatory design, youth evaluate AI tools and shape how they're deployed in their communities, ensuring technology strengthens civic life by reflecting diverse perspectives and addressing real community needs. Students learn to use data, conduct research, and disseminate findings while serving as ambassadors in conversations with friends, family, and community members. Youth contribute directly to DataHaven's statewide reports and provide feedback to ensure publications are equitable, relevant, and accessible to youth audiences, educators, and families.