AI Prompting

by | Mar 4, 2024 | Artificial Intelligence, Technology | 0 comments

Besides thinking about how learners are using generative artificial intelligence, the tool can be a resource for your teaching. For example, you could ask generative artificial intelligence for engagement ideas in your classroom.   

Here is an example prompt:

I teach a biology course.  Please provide two to three ideas for class activities that will engage my students. 

You will receive better responses if you follow a few guidelines when you write prompts for artificial intelligence.  

  • The more specific you are in your prompt, the closer your answer will be to the answer you desire.  For example, a prompt that asks artificial intelligence for engagement ideas in a biology course might focus on lab activities or suggest an industry visit. Perhaps you are looking for activities that provide opportunities to check student comprehension or build community.  Adding that detail to your prompt will ensure that you get better results.
  • Define your role for artificial intelligence. Instead of just defining a biology course, outline that it is an undergraduate biology course or ask that AI deliver results for a university faculty member.  The results will be better tailored to your environment.  
  • Provide guidelines for your results. Instead of asking AI to provide a list of two to three ideas, ask them to describe what the activity looks like or provide examples.  Deciding what you need will help AI meet those needs.
  • When the results aren’t what you expected or need to be revised, tell AI that.  You can provide follow-up prompts that ask AI to iterate on its results.  For example, artificial intelligence can pare down lengthy instructions.  Tell AI, “Ok, that’s great.  Now revise that down to 100 words or less and write it at a 9th grade reading level.”  

In addition to providing follow-up prompts to AI, it is important to review what it produces. Artificial intelligence uses existing information and processes it has learned to produce the results it provides.  There is the risk that AI might provide inaccurate information or include bias.  As a result, it is a good idea to review the results provided.  This will ensure that what you generate is accurate and help you recognize what guidance to provide to students on the ethical use of artificial intelligence.  

For an interesting read about how some students currently lack the critical thinking skills to evaluate content they receive online, check out The Challenge That’s Bigger than Fake New: Civic Reasoning in a Social Media Environment.  It provides a nice overview of skills to help students build when using technology to seek information.

Check out the following examples of how AI can be a resource for your teaching:

Prompt Example 1: Creating Quiz Questions

Prompt

Please write five quiz questions related to the environmental impacts of coal for an undergraduate course on energy.

Response

  1. Multiple Choice: Which of the following pollutants is primarily responsible for acid rain formation as a result of coal combustion? 
    1. Carbon dioxide (CO2)
    2. Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
    3. Nitrogen oxides (NOx)  
    4. Methane (CH4) 
  2. True or False: Coal-fired power plants are a significant source of mercury emissions, which can bioaccumulate in aquatic ecosystems and pose health risks to humans through consumption of contaminated fish.
  3. Fill in the Blank: The process of mountaintop removal mining, commonly used in coal extraction, results in the destruction of __________ and disruption of ecosystems. 
  4. Short Answer: Describe one potential environmental consequence associated with the disposal of coal combustion waste, such as coal ash or sludge. 
  5. Matching: Match the following environmental impacts of coal combustion with their corresponding consequences:  
    1. Acid rain
    2. Air pollution  
    3. Water contamination 
      1. Damage to aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity 
      2. Respiratory and cardiovascular health problems in humans 
      3. Corrosion of buildings and infrastructure, and loss of vegetation 

Answers 

  1. b-Sulfur dioxide (SO2) 
  2. True 
  3. Landscapes 
  4. Answers may vary but could include groundwater contamination, release of heavy metals into the environment, or leaching of toxic substances into nearby water bodies. 
  5. A-1, B-2, C-3 

Prompt Example 2: Write Directions for an Assignment in Canvas 

Prompt

Please write directions for writing a paper that requires a topic proposal, a first draft, and a final version, along with peer reviews for each step.  

Response: Writing a Stellar Paper: From Proposal to Final Version 

This guide outlines the steps involved in writing a successful paper, including topic proposals, drafts, peer reviews, and revisions. Let’s dive in! 

Step 1: Craft a Compelling Topic Proposal 

  1. Identify the assignment guidelines: Thoroughly understand the professor’s expectations regarding paper length, topic scope, sources, and submission format. 
  2. Brainstorm potential topics: Consider your interests, course themes, and research avenues. Explore relevant academic databases and credible news sources. 
  3. Refine your chosen topic: Narrow down your scope to a specific and manageable question or argument. Ensure it aligns with the assignment criteria. 
  4. Develop a research plan: Briefly outline your key research questions, potential source types (academic journals, books, news articles), and initial search terms. 
  5. Write your proposal: Clearly state your chosen topic, its significance, your research question(s), and your planned approach. Include your initial bibliography and research plan overview. 

Step 2: Pen the First Draft 

  1. Structure your document: Follow the required format (e.g., MLA, APA) for headings, citations, and references. 
  2. Write an engaging introduction: Introduce your topic, highlight its importance, and clearly state your thesis statement. 
  3. Develop well-organized body paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a specific point supporting your thesis. Integrate evidence from your research seamlessly, using proper citations. 
  4. Craft a strong conclusion: Summarize your key points, reinforce your thesis, and leave a lasting impression with a thoughtful closing statement. 

Step 3: Seek Peer Feedback and Revise 

  1. Exchange drafts with classmates: Choose peers who are responsible and understand the assignment requirements. 
  2. Provide constructive feedback: Focus on content (argument, clarity, supporting evidence), organization, and flow. Point out potential areas for improvement while offering specific suggestions. 
  3. Receive feedback graciously: Analyze peer comments carefully and consider their suggestions objectively. 
  4. Revise your draft diligently: Incorporate valuable feedback, address identified issues, and polish your writing for clarity and coherence. 

Step 4: Finalize and Submit 

  1. Proofread meticulously: Check for typos, grammatical errors, and punctuation mistakes. Ensure consistent formatting throughout the paper. 
  2. Cite all sources accurately: Double-check your citations and reference list for proper adherence to the required style guide. 
  3. Submit on time: Meet the professor’s deadlines to avoid penalties. 
Remember
  • Utilize academic resources like writing centers and librarians for additional support. 
  • Stay organized and manage your time effectively throughout the writing process. 
  • Don’t hesitate to clarify any doubts with your professor. 

These are great examples of how you can start approaching Generative AI, and how the right kind of prompts and follow-up questions will get you the information you desire. Come back to our Spotlight Series tomorrow for our look at using Copilot to do graphic design!