Teaching Tip: Use Gen-AI to deepen learning and spark creativity
Looking for a fresh way to make abstract content more engaging and inclusive?
In large (>100 students), varied classes—especially foundational or bridging programmes—students’ diverse backgrounds and varying knowledge levels can make collaborative, active learning challenging. Courtney tackled this by developing a group project using Gen-AI tools, enabling students to collaboratively create visuals linking theory to real-world contexts. Students researched topics, created artwork or posters, and shared their insights through presentations and reflections.
Try this!
Assign a group project where students use Gen-AI to visualise a scientific or theoretical concept. Students present their visuals with brief explanations and reflective summaries, enhancing collaboration, curiosity, digital literacy, and understanding of your subject’s practical relevance.
Addresses these teaching challenges:
- Supporting students from diverse backgrounds
- Encouraging meaningful collaboration
- Making abstract concepts accessible
- Developing digital and scientific literacy
- Creating space for creativity in content-heavy disciplines
Implementation
- Form student groups of 4–5, ideally using existing pods or tutorials.
- Assign (or let students choose) a topic, concept, or real-world process to research.
- Guide students to develop prompts and generate visuals using a Gen-AI platform (Microsoft Copilot is preferred at UoA).
- Require submission of the image, Gen-AI prompt(s), a transcript of the AI interaction, and a short reflection on both the subject matter and the creative process.
- Have each group deliver a short presentation to share and explain their work.
Pro tips
- Teach students how to write effective prompts for Gen-AI tools.
- Emphasise transparency and critical evaluation of AI outputs.
- Assign clear roles within groups to ensure equitable participation.
- Help students make connections to industry, health, society, or the environment.
- Include reflection questions that prompt metacognition and critique.
Benefits
- Deepens understanding of key concepts
- Builds soft skills like teamwork, communication, and presentation
- Increases engagement and confidence
- Makes learning more inclusive and socially relevant
- Encourages creativity as a legitimate part of disciplinary learning
Teacher’s voice
“Many students felt more connected to their classmates and more confident in their learning. They said the project made chemistry feel more real and relevant to their lives.” – Courtney
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Accessibility considerations
- Offer alternative creative formats for students who don’t want to use Gen-AI.
- Design group roles to accommodate varied strengths and learning needs.
- Provide guidance on evaluating the accuracy and bias of visual outputs.
Faculty: Science
Suitable for
Shared by
Courtney Ruha
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