AI Workshop for Educators
How do educators use Artificial Intelligence tools in the classroom? What do educators want to know about Artificial Intelligence?
The Exploration
In Fall 2023, MONUM explored using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in collaboration with Boston Public Schools. We wanted what teachers already knew about AI and what they wanted to learn. With the rise of ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, AI is being used more and more inside and outside the classroom.
We discovered that AI can be a powerful tool for educators. While AI cannot replace hands-on instruction from teachers, it can help decrease the digital divide among students. As a bonus, there are lots of helpful tools for teachers to use to assist with lesson planning, translation, and more!
The Experiment
MONUM, in collaboration with our partners at TechBoston Academy, piloted a professional development workshop about AI for educators at TechBoston in January 2024. We designed a choose-your-own adventure model to allow educators to learn about AI that was most helpful for them. Educators learned about the technology behind generative AI. Then, they tried the tools in a hands-on environment to see what worked best for them. Workshops included:
- Understanding Generative AI
- ChatGPT in the Humanities Classroom
- Tool for Educators: Eduaide
- Tool for Educators: MagicSchool
- Tool for Educators: Diffit
The Evaluation
After piloting our workshop, we collected feedback from over 50 educators who attended by asking them to respond to a brief survey. The results? Overwhelmingly positive! Educators loved being able to participate in an interactive workshop where they tried a new AI tool. Nearly every respondent said they learned something new about AI. We also learned that educators want to keep learning about AI and how they can use AI in the classroom.
