Generative AI (ChatGPT) for Faculty

Beyond The Algorithm: Exploring The Boundaries Of ChatGPT: Lesson Plan Christina Hilburger, librarian at SUNY Fredonia, CC-BY

Lesson plan introducing students to generative AI and its possible uses and potential pitfalls.

• Replace summaries with critical reflection​

• Have students respond to discipline-specific emerging scenarios, case studies, and problems​

• Cast them in a role aligned with their aspirations​

• When possible, make room for the personal​

• Document the process​

• Do it live​

• Incorporate course-specific experience​

• Use the classroom as a writing workshop​

• Make self-assessment part of the assignment​

• Encourage choice and creativity​

• Start by reflecting on what you need to assess through the assignment.

  • What parts of an assignment can students use gAI for without preventing them from learning those skills?

  • How could interacting with gAI help them develop those skills?

• Some assignment ideas:​

  • Have students prompt gAI for an answer, then critique or expand upon that answer​

  • Use gAI as a draft peer-reviewer, have students explain which suggestions they take and don't take and why​

  • Spot-the-error, find better sources​

  • Explore a topic and refine research questions ​

  • Have students debate with the AI: the student provides reasons supporting a thesis and asks gAI for counter-arguments. 

• Require students to explain and evaluate their AI use: how did they use it and why, what did they edit and why, what did they learn. Instructors who have done nothing beyond allowing ChatGPT use and requiring giving credit and reflection on the process have reported success.