Amplifying Student Voices: Unleashing the Potential of ChatGPT in Online Learning

Session Description

As instructors navigate the changing educational landscape shaped by the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), they are faced with the challenge of guiding students in effectively using these platforms as valuable learning tools. However, most of the existing literature and training webinars primarily focus on concerns related to cheating, without considering the potential benefits of using AI in education. Some studies even suggest that there has not been an increase in cheating due to AI (Spector, 2023). Therefore, the ideal approach should be for schools and instructors to guide students in using AI platforms as learning tools, much like a tutor helps a student with an assignment. This session will focus on using ChatGPT, a Large Language Model (LLM), and explore how instructors can guide students on the responsible use of ChatGPT, aligning its integration with learning theories such as Constructivism, Connectivism, and Cognitivism. The session will also cover best practices, ethical considerations, and potential challenges associated with incorporating AI into the online learning environment. An interactive demonstration of ChatGPT will illustrate to participants how students can leverage it for collaborative projects, writing assistance, and virtual discussions. Participants will have hands-on practice opportunities, actively engaging with ChatGPT to ask questions and explore its responses. By the end of the session, participants will have a foundational understanding of ChatGPT and gain practical insights into its application, allowing instructors to amplify student voices in the virtual classroom.

Presenter(s)

Lori Brooks
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ, USA

I have worked with adult learners for the past 20 years and although technology has changed quite a bit, students' goals have not. Students want an education that will give them the confidence to pursue their dreams. Therefore, I am particularly interested in technology and pedagogy. I am a full-time faculty member at the University of Phoenix, facilitating undergraduate introductory courses. I hold a Ph.D. in e-Learning Leadership and a Master of Science in Management.

Judy Drilling
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ, USA

I have worked in education for the past 17 years, and my passion is assisting students in meeting their educational goals. As an instructor, I strive to create a learning environment that encourages students to grow academically, professionally, and personally. I obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from California State University, Fresno, in 1999. I began my professional career in teaching as an Independent Living Skills Instructor. In this position, I provided education and training to at-risk youth in home management, educational planning, health matters, employment, and interpersonal skills. I then went on to earn a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership in 2002, as well as a Certificate in Human Resources Management in 2004. I have been teaching online for the University of Phoenix since 2008, teaching mostly Critical Thinking and Psychology of Learning classes. I also taught an Introduction to Psychology class at a local career college.