How, When and Why To Use AI 

@LisaBerghoff

The whirlwind of artificial intelligence tools for learning can seem overwhelming. I'm having fun. I love to learn and try new things and there's no shortage of new things to try right now. However, as I have been teaching staff members about some of our new AI tools and listening to their questions, I realize that I have not done a great job at explaining the reasoning behind why an AI tool might be preferred, or how or when to use in the classroom. While many of us have been experimenting with generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, when it comes to using AI for learning, there is a little bit of head scratching going on. We all agree that we don't wan the AI to be doing the thinking instead of the students. We also agree that we don't want students using AI tools to generate work that they will then turn in as their own. This post is designed to give you some simple recommendations for why, when, and how to use AI with students.

WHY- Embracing AI For Enhanced Learning

When AI is used thoughtfully, it can be used for-

• Personalized learning- AI can analyze student data to help identify strengths and weaknesses, tailoring learning experiences to individual needs. We also now have chatbots that are designed to work like tutors for students. This can lead to increased student engagement. The students who are not going to raise their hands in class just might ask the chatbot to explain content to them.
• Faster feedback- AI powered tools can offer immediate feedback on assignments, it's especially good with writing. This faster feedback loop can help students improve their writing skills because they are not waiting to get their papers back for days or weeks.
• Foster creativity and critical thinking- This seems counterintuitive but if used correctly, the AI tools can help generate creative prompts, simulate real-world scenarios, and will go places with students that we (I) don't really have the patience for. 

WHEN- Strategic Integration

Please don't just let students decide when it's best to employ the use of AI tools. When placed strategically, AI will add value to the learning process.

Scenarios when AI could be utilized-

• Accessibility- AI tools can provide closed captioning, text to speech, speech to text, and more for students who benefit from these tools.
• STEM activities- AI simulations can model complex scientific concepts or can be used to help test engineering solutions.
• Personalized study guides- AI can analyze student performance and create study guides that focus on areas where they need the most support.
• Language learning- Personalized practice, feedback on pronunciation, and grammar.
• Research- AI powered search engines can help students gather and analyze information.
• During parts of the writing process- can help with brainstorming, outlining, editing
• Providing exemplars for students to evaluate

HOW- Practical Applications

We have many AI tools and general digital tools that now have integrated AI capabilities.  To make a blanket statement of "no AI use" is no longer a real possibility in many circumstances.

However,  it is critically important that we educate ourselves, our students, and our parents. We also need to be having ongoing conversations. 

• Please do not wait until you think you are an "expert". That day will not come. Model what learning looks like to your students by trying new things with AI and see how it goes. 
• Consider assigning AI use for part of an assignment. By making it ok. you will likely make it less appealing for students to try and be sneaky. 
• Let AI take some things off your plate. The quick automation is designed to help you. Find a tool or two that works well for you and allow it to do some of the time consuming, mind-numbing parts of being a teacher that are less than fun.
• Utilize the student chat-bot feature to provide each student with an AI tutor. They don't have to sit and do nothing while they wait for you! An added bonus is that you have access to the chat logs so you can see where they need more help.

I hope this clarifies and demystifies some of the edtech AI landscape for you. Want a thought partner that doesn't have a screen? Reach out to me. I'm happy to help!