Notes on Preparing Educators for Generative AI

Introduction to Generative Artificial Intelligence in Education

• Generative AI (GAI): Technologies that allow for natural human-computer interaction (e.g., can see, hear, and speak).
• Importance: Enhances teachers' productivity and instructional capabilities. Need for authentic learning opportunities for teachers.

Preparing Educators

• Goal: Equip preservice and in-service teachers with the knowledge, skills, and mindset for creative engagement with GAI.
• Methodology: Self-study approach to analyze professional practices in a multimedia design course.
• Experiential Activities: 35 teachers participated in activities designed to develop AI literacy, including co-authoring an open-access textbook.

Student Artificial Intelligence Literacy Framework (SAIL)

• Purpose: Facilitates student AI literacy through curriculum engagement and three interaction types:
  • Cognitive Interaction: Activities to enhance intellectual engagement.
  • Instructor-Guided Interaction: Feedback on drafts to enhance understanding without assessment pressures.
  • Socio-Emotional Interaction: Discussions and peer reviews to promote social learning.

Recommendations for Teacher Education Programs

1. Integrate AI Literacy: Essential for modern educational environments; not just technical skills but ethical understanding.
2. Encourage Critical Dialogue: Engage in debates surrounding AI should encompass ethical considerations and biases.
3. Develop Chatbot Communication Skills: Training in effective interaction with AI systems for better outcomes.
4. Facilitate Experiential Learning: Provide hands-on opportunities to use GAI in diverse educational settings.
5. Address Inequalities: Ensure equitable access to AI technologies for all student demographics.

Key Learning Outcomes in ETAD 402 Course

• Demonstrate AI Literacy: Critical evaluation of GAI supports and harms in learning settings.
• Design Inclusive Environments: Create and evaluate educational media for diverse learning objectives.
• Apply Instructional Design Principles: Practical creation of multimedia learning resources.
• Communicate Effectively: Develop a personal philosophy on technology-enhanced instruction.

Engagement Through Course Design

• Constructivist Principles: Foster collaborative learning and shared metacognition among teachers.
• Peer Collaboration: Emphasizing the importance of ongoing communication for enhanced learning experiences.

Innovation in Learning Assignments

• Co-Authoring Open Textbook: Allowing teachers to explore GAI applications relevant to their teaching contexts.
• Template for Writing: Structured guidance for authors to explore AI tools with examples of usage and ethical considerations.

Conclusions and Future Directions

• Evolving Educational Challenges: Ongoing technological advancements necessitate innovation and adaptation in teaching methodologies.
• Call to Action: Universities must prioritize training for educators in AI literacy to guide responsible and innovative use of technologies.

Impact of GAI on Learning

• Positive Role Models: Educators should use GAI openly to set an example for students.
• Need for Comprehensive Understanding: Follow up with modules on deeper issues like misinformation and ethical implications.