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By the OER Project Team
Not long ago, the idea of AI in the classroom seemed like science fiction. Today, it’s a reality we can’t ignore. As educators, we’ve witnessed technology shift—from computers in the classroom to the internet to smart devices— and although with each shift we may have felt some apprehension, we also had a strong sense of the possibilities. AI, our latest opportunity, isn’t here to replace teachers; it’s here to support us if we choose to use it effectively.
AI has been part of everyday life for years. Whether you were checking the weather with Siri, setting a timer with Alexa, or scrolling through a personalized social media feed, AI was operating behind the scenes. Now, these tools are becoming more powerful and accessible—especially in education. Instead of fearing AI, we have a chance to guide students in using it wisely. With the right approach, AI can be a valuable ally in inspiring, engaging, and educating the next generation.
Embracing AI: A Tool, Not a Threat
AI can feel intimidating. It’s fast, intelligent, and seems to “know” a lot. But AI isn’t actually thinking—it’s recognizing patterns and generating responses based on existing data. It can’t replace the creativity, empathy, and deep understanding that educators—that we—bring to the classroom.
Think of AI as an assistant—one that can handle time-consuming tasks, generate ideas, and offer new perspectives. Like any tool (and any assistant), it works best when used with clear expectations and purpose.
AI in the Classroom: A Helping Hand, Not a Shortcut
AI can save time, enhance engagement, and foster critical thinking. Imagine preparing a lesson on the Industrial Revolution. Instead of spending hours brainstorming discussion prompts, AI can generate thought-provoking questions about economic shifts, technological innovations, and social change. This ability doesn’t replace expertise—it frees teachers to focus on guiding discussions and supporting students who need extra help.
For students, AI, when used properly, can act as a writing coach rather than a ghostwriter. Instead of doing the work for them, AI can refine arguments, check grammar, and suggest structural improvements. A student struggling with a thesis might ask, “How can I strengthen my argument about industrialization?” AI will provide suggestions, but the student still does the thinking, rewriting, and learning.
AI can also assist in peer review. Your students could receive targeted feedback by using AI to review their work against the OER Project Writing Rubric. You would then facilitate discussions and guide students through revisions.
Another use of AI is as a fact-checking tool: Ask students to verify AI-generated responses using OER Project materials. If AI provides an oversimplified or inaccurate answer, students must conduct deeper research to refine it. This process strengthens digital literacy and critical-thinking skills.
Bringing AI into Your Teaching
One exciting use of AI is exploring historical “what if” scenarios. What if the printing press had never been invented? AI can propose alternative outcomes, but students must compare them with historical evidence. This sparks curiosity, encourages analysis, and deepens understanding of cause-and-effect relationships.
AI can also support brainstorming. Students can ask AI to generate research questions aligned with OER Project materials, which will ensure relevance while helping them develop meaningful inquiries. Sharing and discussing these questions promotes collaboration and engagement.
For teachers, AI can streamline lesson planning by generating outlines, discussion prompts, and differentiated materials. When used as a brainstorming partner rather than a decision-maker, AI enhances efficiency without compromising instructional intent.
Best Practices for Responsible AI Use
Integrating AI requires thoughtful guidance. Model its use by demonstrating how to verify AI-generated content and refine responses. Set clear guidelines on when and how AI should be used in assignments. Discuss ethical considerations such as data privacy, AI biases, and responsible use. Open conversations empower students to engage with AI critically and responsibly, recognizing it as a tool—not a replacement for learning.
The Future of AI in Education
Change is inevitable, but it brings opportunities. AI, like any new technology, presents challenges, and when used thoughtfully, it can enhance education. The key is balance: AI should support, not replace, the deep thinking and creativity that define meaningful learning experiences. Paired with OER Project resources, AI becomes a tool for empowerment, helping students and educators navigate this evolving landscape with confidence.
