The Higher Ed Ally

This school year, I’m trying something new. I am integrating AI into the online classroom, not to replace lectures, assessments, or grading, but to help students learn how to use it ethically and think critically.

I’m integrating AI into my online classroom

After 18 years of online teaching, I see Gen AI as the most disruptive tool yet. Disruption isn’t inherently negative. I believe by integrating AI into the online classroom, we can use it to sharpen students’ critical thinking. We can teach them to evaluate AI-generated content. Finally, we can prepare them for real-world environments where these tools are becoming standard. As educators, our role is to guide students in using AI as a tool, not a shortcut.

Redesigning Discussion Boards: A Practical Experiment

My own three kids (two in college, one recently graduated) have voiced their distaste for discussion boards. They think the boards are empty participation exercises. After hearing similar feedback from students, I decided to redesign my discussion boards to integrate AI into the online classroom. Furthermore, experts agree that bringing AI into our online classrooms can enhance student learning

Here’s how it works:

• Each of the five discussion boards begins with students generating an initial response using Gen AI tools (like ChatGPT).
• Students then critically evaluate the AI-generated response using course materials and credible outside sources.
• They rewrite the response in their own words, citing both the AI tool and their research.
• To encourage metacognition, I ask them to consider which part of the process helped them understand the topic best.
• In peer replies, students compare AI outputs, identifying differences, inaccuracies, or missing elements.

This structure transforms discussion boards into active learning exercises, where students engage in AI literacy. They can learn how to evaluate sources, and collaborative critique—all while developing real-world communication skills.

Why This Matters: Preparing Students for an AI-Driven World

This is an experiment. I hope it helps students see both the value and limitations of Gen AI, while easing concerns about academic dishonesty. As a historian, it’s my first course without traditional essays—which is admittedly nerve-wracking. But I’m committed to embracing innovation so my students are better equipped for life beyond college.

If you have read any of my previous blogs, you will know that this is not the first time I’ve written about Gen AI. You can find additional discussion in the post AI in the Modern Classroom

Let’s Start a Conversation

I’d love to hear from fellow educators:

• Should we embrace these technologies or ban them?
• How are you managing AI in your own classrooms?
• What tools or strategies are you experimenting with?

Let’s collaborate to shape the future of ethical AI use in education—together.

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