Supporting Student Learning

Shaping Student Understanding 

Faculty can help shape students’ perceptions and understanding of AI by:

  • Discussing AI affordances and constraints openly.
  • Establishing clear policies and expectations related to AI use.
  • Fostering AI literacy and critical thinking skills. 

AI as Learning Support Tool

This approach, called the “Human in the Loop,” emphasizes human interaction with automated systems where students integrate their personal knowledge and expertise by writing effective prompts.

Study Assistance

AI tools can serve as a “tutor partner” by

  • Helping students organize study notes and create quizzes.
  • Testing student understanding through personalized interactions.
  • Personalizing learning experiences through self-quizzing prompts.
  • Creating study guides and tutoring materials.
  • Accommodating a variety of learning needs.

Writing Assistance

Encourage students to use AI at specific stages of their writing process by

  • Brainstorming ideas and initial concept development.
  • Organizing content and structuring arguments.
  • Adjusting style and tone for different audiences.
  • Checking clarity, grammar, and citations. 

Research and Information Gathering

Guide students to

  • Use AI to simplify complex concepts and provide background information.
  • Locate potential sources for further investigation.
  • Verify AI output for credibility and relevance by reading original sources.
  • Cross-reference AI-generated information with authoritative sources. 

Data Analysis and Visualization

Students can use AI to: 

  • Interpret data and create visualizations.
  • Generate initial analysis frameworks.
  • Explain and justify results and understand data.
  • Analyze images to identify patterns and features.

References

Baytas, Claire, and Dylan Ruediger. (2025) “Making AI Generative for Higher Education: Adoption and Challenges Among Instructors and Researchers.” Ithaka S+R.

Bowen, José Antonio and Watson, C. Edward. (2024) Teaching with AI: A Practical Guide to a New Era of Human Learning. Johns Hopkins U Press.

Dobrin, Sidney I. (2025) Talking about Generative AI: A Guide for Educators 2.0. Broadview Press.

Dobrin, Sidney I. (2023) AI and Writing. Broadview Press

Elon University and the American Association of Colleges and Universities. (2025). “AI-U Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence 2025.”