ASU Launches ‘AI-Informed Writing Classroom’

In a forward-thinking initiative, Arizona State University (ASU) is redesigning its first-year writing curriculum to incorporate generative artificial intelligence (AI), promoting student success through innovative educational strategies. This overhaul aims to blend traditional writing instruction with modern AI technologies, reinforcing the notion that "writing is thinking"—a concept rooted in cognitive science.

The initiative, known as the AI-Informed Writing Classroom, began in January and focuses on two key phases: providing structured AI-learning opportunities for faculty and assessing student needs through focus groups. This foundational work will lead to the integration of AI tools into writing courses, allowing students to navigate the complexities of generative language technologies effectively.

Directed by Professor Roger Thompson, who emphasizes the importance of engaging with AI technologies rather than avoiding them, the program aims to equip students with skills to use these tools ethically and effectively. To facilitate this, ASU is hosting a series of colloquia featuring AI experts who will address various topics such as digital wellness and computational rhetoric, fostering a rich environment of inquiry and discussion.

Concrete applications of AI in the classroom have already yielded benefits. Previous studies have shown that using generative AI can reduce grammar errors, while current efforts are focused on ethical AI usage and enhancing students’ ability to articulate ideas clearly. This initiative also harnesses the insights of students actively participating as co-principal investigators on research grants, exploring AI writing technologies first-hand.

By fall 2026, the curriculum will feature lessons on AI ethics, shared resources, and effective strategies for integrating new tools in writing processes. ASU aims not only to prepare students for the evolving writing landscape but also to foster a community of learners adept in leveraging AI for their educational and professional advancements.

Researchers at Washington State University (WSU) are partnering with K–12 teachers to develop AI tools aimed at transforming education in the classroom. One significant project involves creating an AI-assisted tool designed to facilitate scientific inquiry in middle-school settings, ensuring that all students receive personalized support. In an innovative move, WSU plans to equip an RV with AI technologies to provide on-site teacher training in rural areas, enhancing professional development opportunities directly where they are needed.

AI's integration into education offers numerous benefits. For instance, the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering is developing a virtual teaching assistant, while various college departments are incorporating AI into their curricula. Professors are using AI in diverse ways, from preparing class materials to developing chatbots for enhanced student engagement, demonstrating its day-to-day applications.

Moreover, the CESHS’s CAIRE Research Lab is conducting interdisciplinary research to quantify and enhance the use of AI in the classroom, aiming to boost professors' AI utilization by 30% over four years. This proactive approach will significantly impact teacher preparedness and student outcomes, equipping future graduates with essential AI skills for the workforce.

While some educators embrace AI, others express concerns about its potential downsides, including reliance on technology for critical thinking. WSU emphasizes the importance of teaching ethical AI use, preparing students for a world increasingly influenced by these tools. Faculty strategy shifts from evaluating students' completion of tasks to assessing their understanding of the AI-enhanced work they submit. Thus, while AI presents challenges, it also opens pathways for innovation and improved learning experiences, particularly in underserved communities.

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Educators at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College participated in a workshop focused on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. The hands-on session demonstrated AI's concrete applications in education, spanning lesson planning, grading, and the creation of supplementary materials.

AI professor John Sands emphasized the importance of educators from various disciplines—including technology, English, social sciences, health sciences, and automotive engineering—understanding AI tools relevant to their fields. This knowledge enables the integration of AI into teaching practices, providing educators with the capability to enhance lesson delivery and streamline administrative tasks.

During the workshop, participants learned to build interactive classroom materials and understood the need to address the inherent risks associated with AI, including the potential for inaccuracies in generated content. Sands highlighted that educators must validate AI outputs to ensure they are accurate and ethical, enabling a responsible deployment of the technology.

Furthermore, the training aims to prepare students for a job market increasingly dominated by AI skills, which are becoming essential across various industries. Sands remarked on the historical evolution of technology in education, drawing parallels between past innovations like computers and the internet, and the anticipated impact of AI—projected to be even more significant.

By equipping educators with AI competencies, SKYCTC is taking a proactive step toward helping them adapt to a technology that is already integral to modern education and continually evolving.

As artificial intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly integrated into classrooms, Penn faculty are adopting these technologies to enhance the learning process while maintaining academic integrity. In November 2023, the university established a comprehensive AI policy that emphasizes “transparency” and “accountability” in the use of generative AI and machine learning tools within academic settings.

Key initiatives, like the Penn AI Council launched in fall 2024, aim to strategically align AI activities across the university. Co-chairs René Vidal and Bhuvnesh Jain emphasize preparing students for an AI-centric world and leading AI education. Jain’s pilot course, “Introduction to AI: Concepts, Applications and Impact,” featured guest speakers from various fields to expose students to real-world AI applications.

Faculty are also innovating with AI in practical ways. Robert Ghrist, a math professor, utilized AI to co-write a linear algebra textbook, saving him significant time. He developed AI-powered virtual course assistants equipped with essential course information, designed to enhance student engagement and learning.

In language education, AI is being leveraged for greater interactivity. Penn’s Japanese Language Program employs AI tools to support language retention, using custom GPTs for speaking practice and personalized feedback. Professor Megumu Tamura advocates for AI as an asset in generating ideas and locating resources while also stressing the importance of preserving cognitive engagement in learning.

Overall, Penn’s approach to AI highlights its potential to augment educational experiences, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment for both faculty and students. By strategically incorporating AI, the university aims to empower students and enhance traditional learning methodologies.