Facing the reality that a majority of Canadian students are utilizing generative AI for school assignments, an increasing number of educators are integrating artificial intelligence into their university classrooms. They are establishing clear guidelines and promoting responsible usage among students, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation. This shift is prompting instructors to reconsider their teaching methods and assessment strategies, especially in light of concerns about maintaining academic integrity.
University professors are adapting their courses to incorporate AI tools and guiding students on how to effectively utilize them. For instance, Antonello Callimaci, an accounting professor at Université du Québec à Montréal, has developed an AI “teaching assistant” named Bobby to assist students. Bobby, trained on Callimaci’s course materials, provides prompt responses and aids students with summaries, sample exams, and specific queries.
In another approach, political science professor Joseph Wong from the University of Toronto has revamped his teaching methods to engage students using generative AI. Instead of traditional assignments, students now interact with AI through “reaction dialogues” to delve deeper into course materials and engage in meaningful discussions.
Similarly, Sidney Shapiro, an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge, has leveraged AI tools to enhance student learning experiences. By incorporating generative AI in programming courses, Shapiro encourages creativity and engagement among students, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
Maggie McDonnell, an instructor at Concordia University, incorporates AI across her courses, encouraging students to explore the ethical implications and benefits of AI. She emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use and regularly reevaluates assessment methods and learning objectives to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.
As educators navigate the integration of AI in classrooms, the focus remains on promoting critical thinking skills and ethical AI utilization among students. The evolving role of AI in education underscores the need for continuous adaptation and innovation in teaching practices to ensure a balanced approach to technology-enhanced learning.