Teaching Strategies in a World with AI
The purpose of this article is to provide a list of Best Practices and Teaching Strategies that can be engaged in classwork for world where AI exists.
Key Considerations
Best practices for guiding students in using AI tools responsibly while upholding academic integrity
Best Practice | Description |
|---|---|
Incorporate Drafting & Process Work | Encourage or require students to show drafts, peer feedback, or development over time. This builds accountability and reduces last-minute reliance on AI. |
Assess Thinking, Not Just Answers | Ask students to explain their reasoning, choices, or learning—through videos, annotations, or discussions—to surface original thought and engagement. |
Use AI Tools for Skill-Building, Not Substitution | Frame AI as a coach, not a crutch. Support students in using AI to improve their writing or thinking, not replace it. |
Address Equity and Access | Acknowledge that not all students have the same access to AI tools. Offer guidance and institutional resources to level the playing field. |
Reflect and Revise Regularly | Stay current with AI developments. Check in with students about what’s working and what’s unclear. Adjust policies and practices as tools and norms evolve. |
Key considerations faculty should keep in mind when thinking about AI transparency with students:
Clarify Your Own Use of AI
Let students know if and how you use AI in course design, communication, or assessment (e.g., drafting announcements or rubrics), to model ethical use and normalize transparency.
State Course Policies Clearly
Be explicit in your syllabus and assignments about what kinds of AI use are allowed, restricted, or prohibited—and explain the reasoning behind those boundaries.
Distinguish Between Help and Misconduct
Clarify what constitutes acceptable AI-assisted learning (e.g., grammar checks, idea generation) versus academic dishonesty (e.g., fully AI-generated assignments without disclosure).
Invite Questions and Dialogue
Acknowledge student confusion about AI boundaries. Encourage them to ask about appropriate use rather than guessing or hiding behavior.
Address AI Disclosure Practices
If students are allowed to use AI, let them know how and where to disclose it (e.g., a footnote, cover page statement, or reflection paragraph).
Acknowledge Tool Limitations and Biases
Help students understand that AI tools can be inaccurate, biased, or misleading. Transparency includes fostering critical awareness—not just permission.
Explain the Why Behind Your Rules
Connect your policies to learning goals, academic integrity, and the development of critical thinking, so students understand the purpose behind the guidelines.
Be Consistent but Context-Aware
Consistency builds trust—but also be prepared to make exceptions or clarify expectations depending on the assignment type, student needs, or course level.
Build Trust Through Mutual Accountability
Model the kind of transparency you want from students. Share your thinking process, provide feedback, and invite students to reflect on their learning methods—including AI use.
Stay Open to Evolving Norms
AI is a moving target. Be upfront with students that your approach may adapt as tools change or institutional policies evolve—and involve them in those conversations.