Teaching with AI to Foster Belonging: Practical Strategies
Posted by anne.grey
Presenter: Debbie Austin
This session focuses on taking a pedagogy-first approach to integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the classroom. Rather than viewing AI strictly as a technological tool or a policing challenge, educators are encouraged to anchor conversations in student belonging, equity, and authentic learning. The presentation highlights how structured, clear guidance around AI usage helps narrow the digital divide and demystifies academic expectations—especially for first-generation, adult, and historically marginalized learners. Participants explored practical frameworks, such as the 5 S’s of prompt engineering, to adapt complex course materials into plain language, create culturally responsive activities, and lower barriers to student engagement without sacrificing critical thinking.
Presentation Outcomes
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe how AI can support student belonging, engagement, and equitable learning through a pedagogy-first approach.
- Apply AI tools and prompting strategies to build active learning, culturally responsive materials, and differentiated supports.
- Evaluate opportunities and challenges around AI, equity, access, integrity, and cultural responsiveness in the classroom.
- Design an AI-enhanced activity or assignment that promotes motivation, self-efficacy, and a stronger sense of belonging for students.
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