This is part of my Generative AI in the Classroom series where I write about how AI is changing education and what I have learned from using it. Read the rest of this series here.

So, today I was reading Matt Miller’s book called AI for Educators and I highly recommend it to any teachers who are really struggling with trying to figure out exactly where pieces like Bard and chat GPT might fit into their workflows for the upcoming school year. A lot of what he has to say is not things that I am new to, but it is coming to me in a different point of view and making me really think about ways that I use chatGPT specifically now and then maybe how I’ll pivot to using BardAI later on with its integration to Google docs. In his 30 tips part he actually mentions using chatGPT to help educators differentiate in a classroom and I really wondered what it would do. So, I went and open my account and asked. Below you’ll see the exchange between myself ChatGPT and asking it to generate a mock memo to an admin about why I should use the chat GPT ideas in my classroom and issues from the process.

BFW

Could you list some of the different ways I could use chat GPT to differentiate a classroom lesson on voting rights in the United States history and why it’s important to discuss politics in classrooms?

ChatGPT
Certainly! Here are some different ways you can use Chat GPT to differentiate a classroom lesson on voting rights in the United States history and the importance of discussing politics in classrooms:

Interactive Q&A session: Use Chat GPT to create an interactive Q&A session where students can ask questions about voting rights in the United States. They can engage in a conversation with the model to clarify their doubts and deepen their understanding of the topic.

Virtual debate: Divide the class into groups and assign them different perspectives on voting rights issues throughout history. Students can use Chat GPT as a resource to gather information and arguments to support their assigned positions. They can then engage in a virtual debate using the information they’ve gathered.

Historical simulations: Use Chat GPT to create historical simulations where students can interact with virtual historical figures involved in the fight for voting rights. They can engage in conversations with these figures, ask questions, and learn about their motivations and challenges.

Writing prompts: Provide students with writing prompts related to voting rights and politics. They can use Chat GPT to brainstorm ideas, gather information, and receive suggestions on how to structure their written responses. The model can act as a writing coach, helping students improve their arguments and develop their critical thinking skills.

Research projects: Assign students individual or group research projects on different aspects of voting rights history. They can use Chat GPT as a research assistant to gather information, find primary and secondary sources, and analyze historical documents related to the topic.

Current events analysis: Discuss the importance of politics in classrooms by using Chat GPT to analyze current events related to voting rights and their implications. Students can examine news articles, opinion pieces, or speeches and then engage in discussions about the impact of these events on society and the democratic process.

Ethical debates: Use Chat GPT to explore the ethical dimensions of voting rights and political discussions in the classroom. Students can engage in debates about the balance between free speech and respectful dialogue, the responsibility of educators in shaping political opinions, and the importance of promoting civic engagement.

By incorporating Chat GPT into your lesson, you can provide students with a dynamic and interactive learning experience while catering to their diverse learning needs and interests. It can serve as a valuable tool for research, critical thinking, and facilitating meaningful discussions about the significance of voting rights and politics in our society.





BFW
Could you help me draft a memo to an admin that would be afraid of me using chat GPT for differentiation? Please be honest Tell me what problems I should expect from you and what problems I should expect from students.

ChatGPT
Subject: Incorporating Chat GPT for Differentiation in the Classroom

Dear [Admin’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to discuss an innovative approach I would like to explore for differentiation in my classroom. After careful consideration and research, I have come across an artificial intelligence tool called Chat GPT that I believe can greatly enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. However, I understand that there may be concerns or reservations about implementing this technology, and I would like to address those proactively.

Firstly, I want to acknowledge that using Chat GPT does come with its own set of challenges and limitations. As an AI language model, Chat GPT is based on patterns and data from a wide range of sources, and it may occasionally provide incorrect or biased information. While OpenAI has made efforts to improve the model’s accuracy and reliability, it is essential for both teachers and students to critically evaluate and fact-check the responses generated.

Moreover, there might be instances where Chat GPT may not fully understand or appropriately respond to certain questions or prompts. It is important to remember that it is a machine learning model and has its limitations. As an educator, I will need to guide students on how to utilize Chat GPT effectively, encouraging them to think critically, verify information, and engage in deeper discussions rather than relying solely on the model’s responses.

I am also aware that some concerns may arise from the potential distraction that Chat GPT could pose in the classroom. To mitigate this, I plan to establish clear guidelines and expectations for its use. I will ensure that Chat GPT is utilized as a tool to support learning objectives and that students understand its purpose as a means of differentiation and not a substitute for direct teacher instruction or collaboration with peers.

Additionally, student privacy is of utmost importance. While Chat GPT does not store personal information, I will ensure that students are educated on privacy and digital citizenship. They will be advised not to share any personally identifiable information or engage in conversations that may compromise their safety or well-being.

To address these potential challenges, I propose the following action plan:

Educating students about the capabilities and limitations of Chat GPT.
Implementing critical thinking exercises to encourage students to question and evaluate responses generated by the model.
Providing explicit instructions on using Chat GPT as a supplementary tool, rather than a primary source of information.
Establishing guidelines for responsible and focused use of Chat GPT during designated class activities.
Consistently monitoring and assessing the impact of Chat GPT on student learning and engagement to make informed decisions about its ongoing use.
I believe that with proper guidance and oversight, the use of Chat GPT can effectively enhance differentiation in the classroom, foster critical thinking skills, and encourage active engagement among students.

I am more than willing to discuss this further and address any specific concerns or questions you may have. I am committed to ensuring a safe and productive learning environment and will take all necessary precautions to address the potential challenges associated with implementing Chat GPT.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Contact Information]





BFW:
Thank you

ChatGPT
You’re welcome! I’m glad I could help. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Good luck with your memo, and I hope your plans for incorporating Chat GPT in your classroom differentiation are well received.

As you can see, there are elements of the conversation that can be helpful especially for a new teacher or one pivoting into a new class assignment. The downfalls of ChatGPT are still evident in the ability to know authentic audience and expected outcomes. My next post will include the interactions I have while developing a unit outline and how to write prompts to get alternate outcomes.