Task Support & GenAI
GenAI, when appropriately applied, can play a significant role in supporting staff in higher education. Yet, it’s crucial to navigate the complexities of relying on such technologies judiciously. A focus solely on efficiency can inadvertently affect the depth and quality of education (Beetham, 2024). . Our goal is to encourage a thoughtful and critical approach to the use of GenAI in education.
This guide is structured to explore GenAI’s role in three distinct areas within Higher Education: task support, learning enhancement, and accessibility support. Each section will provide practical examples, illustrating how GenAI can be integrated into various academic disciplines, while also considering the broader implications of its use.
“…AI technologies, if properly implemented, could improve learning outcomes and reduce staff workloads in educational settings, including in…universities.”
Use of artificial intelligence in education delivery and assessment.
Gen AI & Task Support
Below we outline examples in which GenAI may assist you with Task Support.
Considerations before Using GenAI for Task Support:
- Transparency with Students: Clearly communicate your use of GenAI in teaching materials or assessments, both in the course outline and in class discussions. This openness builds trust and acknowledges the collective journey in understanding AI’s educational role.
- Verifying AI-Generated Content: Due to GenAI’s propensity for producing incorrect information or “hallucinations,” it’s essential to verify the accuracy of AI-generated content before using it in the classroom.
- Inclusivity and Diversity: When considering GenAI-generated outputs, remember the diverse needs and backgrounds of your students. While AI can aid in course design and development, it’s important to weigh these benefits against potential risks of exclusion or misunderstanding.
- Critical Deployment: Reflect on how GenAI can best serve your teaching objectives and discipline-specific needs. The goal is not only to improve efficiency.
Attribution
Adapted from Centre for Faculty Development and Teaching Innovation, C. C. (2023, October 25). Generative Artificial Intelligence in teaching and learning. Generative Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/ccgenerativeai/
Reference
Beetham, H. (2024). Never mind the quality, feel the speed. Never mind the quality, feel the speed. https://helenbeetham.substack.com/p/never-mind-the-quality-feel-the-speed
Prud’homme-Généreux, A. (2022). Learning through examples: Inductive learning. Faculty Focus | Higher Ed Teaching & Learning. https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/course-design-ideas/learning-through-examples-inductive-learning/.
