Artificial Intelligence (AI) is when computers or machines are designed to “act smart,” answering your questions in seconds. Instead of following strict instructions, AI learns from information or data and recognizes patterns. You see AI in things like voice assistants, phone suggestions, and smart gadgets. It basically helps make technology more helpful and easier to use in daily life. For example, a form of virtual assistant I use daily is Siri by Apple! AI is everywhere.

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new things, like text, pictures, music, or even videos, by learning from examples. Instead of just following instructions, it can “imagine” and produce content that didn’t exist before. Apps or websites like ChatGPT, PerplexityAI and/or image generators are examples of generative AI. These websites are like having a smart helper that can make stuff for you.

Here is an example of a question I put into Perplexity. I asked it to show me all five ballet positions. Within seconds, I received visuals, additional resources, and an explanation of all five positions. It also provided me with related searches to further my research.

Although very convenient, it’s important to stress that AI isn’t always the answer. Like most people, AI isn’t perfect and often makes mistakes. As an educator in this day and age, it’s important to teach students what information is real and what is fake. It’s also important to have a conversation about when it’s appropriate to use AI and when you should be using your own ideas and research. Another con that AI brings to the table is digital bullying or the creation of “deepfakes”. Deepfakes are realistic visuals created by AI. Inappropriate images can be created by impersonating someone without their consent. Although they are fake, they can still be very harmful to the victim’s safety. This is bullying and should have serious consequences should it be committed.

Below is an intro tutorial that teachers can use as a guide when starting to have this conversation.

Another resource that we discussed in class that I wanted to further explore, is Magic School AI. Magic School is a free platform created specifically for teachers, making daily life tasks easier. Magic School can help educators create academic lesson plans, worksheets, rubrics, and much more. You can ensure that your tasks are being created to align with your province’s standards. This site can also focus on more SEL tools, like creating team-building activities, and assisting with classroom management. Magic School AI (like all AI) has it’s quirks, but is a great start if you’re in a pinch! This website is able to create tasks with a UDL framework and is definitely worth checking out. Watch the video below for a quick tutorial.

Overall, I learned a lot about AI literacy in this class. The possibilities of AI are so over my head it’s scary to even think about. I think going forward in my education, and as a future educator, it’s important for me to continue being a lifelong learner and also ensuring I am up to date on the possibilities of AI. AI quite possibily will be the future of every aspect of the world, so there’s no use denying it. Educating my students on the possibilities, consequences, and when it’s appropriate in use is what I can do to properly set my students up for success. Ensuring my students have a clear learning goal and are being safe and responsible is my number one goal.