Eight ways to use AI in active learning – and four challenges it brings
Are you looking for ways to enhance active learning in your teaching? AI tools can be a valuable resource to help you achieve this goal. By integrating AI strategies into your teaching practices, you can create more engaging and personalized learning experiences for your students. However, it's essential to be aware of the challenges that may arise when using AI in active learning. Let's explore eight ways you can leverage AI in active learning, along with the challenges you may encounter.
1. Enhancing Student Engagement
AI can enable students to engage more deeply with course material by providing personalized learning experiences and real-time feedback. Tools like Active Blended Inclusive Learning can help promote equity and enhance student outcomes.
2. Generating Images and Videos
Applications like DALL·E, Leonardo.ai, and Flux can be used to create images from text, while tools like Synthesia can help generate videos with AI avatars presenting text. These resources can make learning more interactive and engaging for students.
3. Intellectual Play and Philosophical Inquiry
AI tools like OpenAI’s voice mode and ElevenLabs’ conversational agents can be used for thought experiments, philosophical dialogues, and roleplays. Students can engage in scenario-based learning or explore topics with historical figures like bel hooks and Ada Lovelace.
4. Generating Code Snippets
Anthropic Claude, OpenAI ChatGPT, and Google Gemini are tools that can generate code snippets, suggest improvements, and debug errors. These resources can help students learn coding skills more effectively.
5. Scaffold Complex Topics
AI tools can provide supporting material to help students understand complex topics, such as mathematical problems, historical events, and policy documents. By scaffolding learning in this way, students can grasp difficult concepts more easily.
6. Providing Feedback on Writing
Tools like Chat GPT’s canvas feature and Microsoft Copilot can offer feedback on students' writing, including clarity, grammar, and critical thinking. These tools can help students improve their writing skills while maintaining academic integrity.
7. Developing Critical Thinking Skills
AI can support critical thinking by suggesting alternative sources and evaluations. By using AI tools to enhance research skills, students can learn to critically evaluate information and sources more effectively.
8. Interactive Learning Games
Using tools like Anthropic’s Claude, Black Forest Labs’ Flux, and Google Labs’ MusicFX, educators can create interactive games to engage students in learning technical terminology. These games can make learning more enjoyable and encourage students to revisit the material.
Challenges of Using AI in Active Learning
While AI offers many benefits for active learning, there are also challenges to consider. These challenges include ensuring the ethical use of AI, addressing bias in AI algorithms, managing data privacy concerns, and providing adequate training for both educators and students.
As you explore the possibilities of using AI in active learning, remember to approach these tools with caution and creativity. By experimenting with AI strategies and collaborating with your students, you can create engaging and inclusive educational experiences.
