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4.2.1: A checklist of low-barrier tools or practices to try

  • Page ID
    253349

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    You don’t need a large-scale AI implementation to make a difference. Many instructors start small—with easy-to-use tools and low-risk practices that support teaching and learning. This checklist offers practical, low-barrier ideas you can try in your course today.

    📋 Low-Barrier AI Practices for Instructors

    • Use AI to draft quiz questions, multiple-choice items, or short-answer prompts
    • Generate rubrics or assignment instructions based on course outcomes
    • Summarize an article or create a student-friendly reading guide
    • Rewrite a prompt at multiple reading levels for student accessibility
    • Ask AI to generate sample student responses to use as discussion models
    • Use AI to draft weekly announcements, reminders, or Canvas updates
    • Develop lesson outlines or slide content based on lecture goals
    • Create variations of discussion questions to support different perspectives
    • Generate alt-text or image descriptions for visuals in course materials
    • Translate course instructions into another language to support multilingual learners

    💡 Tips for Getting Started

    • Start with one use case in one module
    • Keep student data out of AI tools unless approved by your institution
    • Share your process with students—invite reflection, not just automation
    • Check the tool’s accessibility and privacy policies before use

    🎓 Why This Matters for Instructors

    Small changes can have a big impact. These low-barrier strategies let you explore AI while preserving student trust, academic integrity, and instructional quality. Starting small builds momentum—and confidence—as you find what works best for your teaching style.


    This page titled 4.2.1: A checklist of low-barrier tools or practices to try is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by .


    This page titled 4.2.1: A checklist of low-barrier tools or practices to try is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Pamela Huntington.

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