Best Practices in Lesson Design Using AI
The development of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT has opened up exciting possibilities for teachers. From generating lesson plans to crafting engaging activities, these tools can save time, inspire creativity, and support personalized learning. However, as with any new technology, success depends on using it effectively. In this blog we’ll explore the best practices for incorporating LLMs into lesson design.
1. Start with Clear Objectives
Before turning to an LLM for assistance, define your lesson objectives (also called learning objectives). What do you want students to learn or achieve? Clear goals ensure that the AI’s output aligns with your educational priorities. For example, specify whether you need a lesson on critical thinking, collaboration, or a specific subject like algebra or history.
Pro Tip: Use prompts that reflect your objectives. Instead of saying, “Create a lesson plan about ancient Egypt,” try, “Create a 45-minute lesson plan for my 11th grade students that focuses on the causes of World War II and includes discussion questions.”
2. Customize and Refine AI Outputs
LLMs excel at generating ideas but may require refinement to meet your needs. Avoid using outputs verbatim; instead, treat them as a draft or starting point.
Adjust for Your Audience: Tailor the complexity of language and content to suit the age, skill level, and background of your students.
Incorporate Local Contexts: Add examples or references relevant to your students’ communities or cultures to make the material more relatable.
Align with Standards: Cross-check AI-generated materials against your curriculum standards to ensure compliance.
Pro Tip: Use iterative prompting. For example, if the first output isn’t quite right, refine your prompt with specific details like, “Make this activity more interactive,” or “Provide three examples relevant to sixth-graders.”
3. Foster Student Engagement
Engaging lessons are a cornerstone of effective teaching. LLMs can help brainstorm activities and materials that capture students’ attention, but human creativity is key to making them work.
Interactive Activities: Request activities like debates, role-playing scenarios, or group projects to make learning dynamic.
Thought-Provoking Questions: Ask the LLM to generate open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and class discussions.
Multimodal Content: Use the AI to create varied materials, such as text-based exercises, visuals, or even gamified quizzes.
Pro Tip: Combine LLM outputs with multimedia tools like Canva or Kahoot to create visually appealing and interactive lesson components.
4. Prioritize Ethical and Accurate Content
AI tools are powerful but not infallible. They can produce inaccuracies or inadvertently reinforce biases. As an educator, you’re the final authority on what’s included in your lesson.
Fact-Check Thoroughly: Verify information using trusted sources to ensure accuracy.
Watch for Bias: Be alert to stereotypes or assumptions in AI-generated content. Edit accordingly to maintain inclusivity.
Cite Your Sources: Teach students to respect intellectual property by modeling good citation practices for AI-generated content.
Pro Tip: Use prompts that explicitly ask for accurate and unbiased content, such as, “Generate a lesson plan on climate change using only peer-reviewed scientific sources.”
5. Balance AI Use with Pedagogical Expertise
LLMs are a tool, not a replacement for teaching expertise. Combine AI-generated content with your professional knowledge to create lessons that are both innovative and pedagogically sound.
Human Touch: Add anecdotes, humor, or insights that reflect your teaching style.
Differentiation: Modify AI outputs to address diverse learning styles and needs within your classroom.
Feedback Loops: Use AI to draft rubrics or formative assessments, but customize them to align with your approach to evaluation.
Pro Tip: Collaborate with AI as a co-designer rather than a sole creator. Think of it as a brainstorming partner rather than an expert.
6. Experiment and Iterate
Effective lesson design with LLMs involves experimentation. Test new ideas, gather student feedback, and refine your approach over time.
Pilot New Ideas: Try AI-generated activities or materials in small groups before scaling up.
Seek Feedback: Ask students what they liked or didn’t like about the lesson to improve future designs.
Stay Updated: Follow advancements in AI tools to explore new features and capabilities that enhance lesson planning.
Pro Tip: Join educator communities or forums to exchange ideas and best practices for using LLMs in the classroom. One of the best is Share My Lesson, sponsored by the American Federation of Teachers. A second favorite is California Teachers Together.
7. Maintain Transparency with Students
Using AI in education offers a valuable opportunity to teach students about technology. Be open about how you’re using LLMs in lesson design and encourage critical discussions about AI.
Explain the Process: Share how the AI contributed to the lesson, emphasizing its role as a tool rather than an authority.
Encourage Critical Thinking: Discuss the strengths and limitations of AI to foster digital literacy.
Invite Collaboration: Challenge students to improve or build upon AI-generated materials, promoting creativity and ownership.
Pro Tip: Frame AI as a collaborative partner in learning by using statements like, “ChatGPT helped me brainstorm today’s discussion questions. Let’s see how we can expand on them together.”
Final Thoughts
Large Language Models like ChatGPT are revolutionizing lesson design, offering educators innovative ways to save time, enhance creativity, and personalize learning. By following these best practices, you can harness the power of AI responsibly and effectively while ensuring that your lessons remain engaging, accurate, and aligned with educational goals. Embrace LLMs as a powerful ally in your teaching toolkit — but remember, your expertise is what ultimately brings lessons to life.
