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1.1.3: How Instructors and Students Are Using Large Language Models in the Classroom

  • Page ID
    253441

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    While large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Bard are powerful, how they’re used in real college classrooms varies widely—from time-saving tools for instructors to writing support for students. This section focuses on the actual use cases instructors and students are exploring (and sometimes experimenting with).


    👩‍🏫 How Instructors Are Using LLMs

    • Drafting Course Materials
      Instructors use AI to help write or revise learning objectives, quiz questions, rubrics, and even discussion prompts.

    • Planning Lessons and Lectures
      Some faculty prompt AI tools to summarize research, propose activity ideas, or generate case study scenarios.

    • Writing Communication
      Many use LLMs to draft announcements, outreach emails, or syllabus sections—saving time while staying student-friendly.

    • Creating Accessible or Alternative Formats
      Instructors have used AI to simplify complex language, create outlines, or generate materials that meet UDL (Universal Design for Learning) needs.


    🎓 How Students Are Using LLMs

    • Brainstorming and Outlining
      Students may prompt ChatGPT to help generate essay ideas, create outlines, or explain difficult concepts in plain language.

    • Language Support
      For multilingual students, AI tools can provide paraphrased explanations or grammar help.

    • Studying and Review
      Some use AI to quiz themselves, summarize readings, or compare answers across models.

    ⚠️ Important note: Student use of AI may or may not align with academic integrity policies. Instructors are encouraged to set clear expectations and create space for discussion.


    🧠 Why This Matters for Instructors

    Understanding how LLMs are used helps instructors:

    • Anticipate and address student behaviors
    • Guide ethical and appropriate use
    • Consider ways to incorporate AI meaningfully into teaching practice

    ✅ Quick Reflection

    Which of these classroom uses of AI felt familiar—or surprising? Think about how your students might already be using LLMs in their academic work. How might understanding these patterns shape the way you design assignments, set expectations, or engage in conversations about academic integrity?


    This page titled 1.1.3: How Instructors and Students Are Using Large Language Models in the Classroom is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by .


    This page titled 1.1.3: How Instructors and Students Are Using Large Language Models in the Classroom is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Pamela Huntington.