What Should I Use AI For?
TL;DR: Using AI to Improve Teacher Workflows
AI is best used as a tool to improve existing teacher workflows, not as extra work. Teachers can use AI to save time, increase efficiency, and strengthen instructional effectiveness while still applying professional judgment.
Key Idea
Teaching consists of workflows such as lesson planning, assessments, instructional supports, communication, and record keeping. AI can assist with the individual tasks inside those workflows.
How to Use AI Effectively
Start with a clear purpose:
- Define the goal of the task
- Provide AI with clear instructions and context
- Review and refine the AI-generated output
AI outputs should be treated as drafts or starting points, not final products. Teacher expertise remains essential.
Example Applications
Lesson Planning
- Generate draft lesson plans
- Include standards, objectives, activities, and differentiation ideas
- Customize outputs for student needs
Instructional Supports
- Simplify reading materials for different grade levels
- Create worksheets, graphics, and practice activities
- Support differentiated instruction
Assessments
- Create questions with increasing difficulty
- Generate formative assessments quickly
- Identify student learning gaps more efficiently
Core Takeaway
To decide when to use AI, identify the workflow, break it into tasks, and determine which tasks can be delegated to AI with clear prompts and guidance.