Carolyn Harris EDUC 5313 - Week 4

 Part 1

I used MagicSchool AI to generate a lesson plan introducing university students to argumentation in preparation for their argumentative essays. I aligned the plan with ISTE Standard 1.4: Innovative Designer since the lesson plan required students to use a digital tool to brainstorm and develop their essays. The lesson plan that was generated closely resembled a lesson I had taught on what an argument is and how to use databases to research. The AI generated lesson plan included step-by-step instructions, guided and independent practice, a closing, and homework which all connected back to the learning objectives.

However, there were areas for improvement. Although I provided the ISTE standard, the AI initially failed to incorporate digital tools to enhance student learning. I had to prompt it again to include them. Additionally, I thought the lesson plan could have been more detailed. For instance, rather than stating “present a clear definition of an argumentative essay” (MagicSchool AI, n.d.), it would be more helpful if this was developed further by providing a definition that can be used in the lesson. 

Overall, I find the AI tool helpful in designing rigorous lesson plans. It includes key elements such as instruction, scaffolding, independent work, and assessment which I believe are components that make for an effective lesson plan.  

This lesson reflects the readings that we had in the past weeks. The AI tool supports Kolb’s Triple E Framework by enhancing engagement through technology and can improve lesson plans by suggesting innovative ways to improve the curriculum. It also aligns with Newmann et al.’s principles of authentic instruction and assessment since the AI tool can be prompted to ensure lessons prioritizes real world learning. Finally, in regards to Guru and Rivera's works, it allows for the improvement of curriculum design and student autonomy by increasing self regulation, executive function and long term retention.

Lesson Plan Link: https://app.magicschool.ai/tools/lesson-plan-generator?share=f673cbb2-1db0-4fbd-a6cd-ca4a3dcd9aca

Part 2

While exploring the AI powered tools on the Magic Tool page, I tried the Teacher Jokes Generator, which provides jokes for classroom use. I chose this tool because I believe humor is an underrated but powerful teaching strategy. I teach pre-med students, who often arrive to class tired due to their heavy workload. Appropriate humor can help lighten the mood, boost engagement, and create a more positive, focused learning environment that enhances retention of information.

I plan to use the tool for icebreakers and instruction. I typically start my classes with an icebreaker, and this tool can help me set a welcoming tone. I am also not good at making jokes, most usually falling flat so this would be quite helpful for brainstorming. It can also support instruction by generating subject relevant jokes that connect with the lesson content and resonate with my students.

Part 3

I believe MagicSchool AI is a valuable addition to the list of effective classroom AI tools. I can see myself using this tool for lesson planning, brainstorming ideas and providing feedback aligned with rubrics. Recently, I’ve become more interested in how AI can support editing and feedback on student writing. I see its potential to make learning more engaging and reducing teachers' workload. Because of these benefits, I plan to share this tool with colleagues to expand their awareness beyond tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly that we often use at my workplace.

Honestly, I don’t foresee any major challenges in using MagicSchool AI as I’m already open to integrating AI in my classroom. While no AI tool is perfect, most limitations can be addressed by refining prompts to achieve more accurate results. MagicSchool AI can sometimes lack detailed descriptions, however this also leaves room for teachers to exercise their own skills and creativity. I believe AI tools should be used as an assistant rather than taking on most or all of the teacher's responsibilities.

MagicSchool AI is beneficial since it offers many functions that can meet the different needs of teachers. Some key insights I will draw from the Guidance and Considerations for Using Artificial Intelligence in Oklahoma K-12 Schools document are the importance of using AI in an ethical and transparent manner. The document outlines approaches to using AI in the classroom that I have already began implementing into my classroom such as using clear AI guidelines and AI literacy integration into instruction. These practices ensure that AI is used ethically and effectively to support student learning.

References

Gura, M. (2020). Fostering Student Creativity. EdTech Digest the State of the Arts, Creativity, and Technology 2020: A Guide for Educators and Parents. p. 7. 

International Society for Technology in Education. (2024). ISTE Standards: For Students. https://www.iste.org/standards/students.

Kolb, L. (n.d.). Triple E Framework. https://www.tripleeframework.com.

MagicSchool AI. (n.d.). MagicSchool AI. https://www.magicschool.ai/

Newmann, F. M., King, M. B., & Carmichael, D. L. (2007).  Authentic instruction and assessment: Common standards for rigor and relevance in teaching academic subjects. State of Iowa Department of Education.

OSDE. (2024). Guidance and Considerations for Using Artificial Intelligence in Oklahoma K-12 Schools. Retrieved from: https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/osde/documents/services/standards-learning/educational-technology/Guidance-and-Considerations-for-Artificial-Intelligence-in-Oklahoma-Schools.pdf

Rivero, V. (2020). A Whole New Class of Art. EdTech Digest the State of the Arts, Creativity and Technology 2020: A Guide for Educators and Parents. p. 12-20.