Dear Colleagues,

I’ve been thinking often about ways to improve the classroom experience at Chapman University. Thus, I turned to ChatGPT to see if it could offer any insight. Below is my exchange with the AI tool. When relevant, I added links to resources that we have already provided to you in ChatGPT’s reply.

Dear Chat GPT,

I struggle to train faculty on how to use the technology that is available in the classrooms on our campus. Do you have any advice for me?

students with laptops looking at a collaboration screen

Photo by Jason Goodman on Unsplash

ChatGPT:

  1. Start with the basics: Many faculty members may not be familiar with the technology, so it’s important to start with the basics. Create simple tutorials or step-by-step guides that explain how to use the technology in a clear and concise way.
  2. Offer hands-on training: Some faculty members may benefit from hands-on training where they can practice using the technology in a real-world setting. Consider scheduling small group or one-on-one training sessions where you can work with them directly.
  3. Use real-life scenarios: Faculty members may be more likely to engage with the technology if they see how it can benefit them and their students. Use real-life scenarios and examples to demonstrate how the technology can be used in the classroom.
  4. Encourage experimentation: Encourage faculty members to experiment with the technology and try new things. Provide opportunities for them to share their successes and challenges with others, which can help to foster a sense of community and encourage further exploration.
  5. Be patient: Remember that not all faculty members may be comfortable with technology, and it may take some time for them to feel confident using it. Be patient and provide ongoing support to help them feel more comfortable and confident.

What I learned from this exchange with ChatGPT is that we are already well on track to support our faculty in their use of classroom technology. However, we can do more and do better by providing more easily-accessible guides, training and support. Look for more to come in these areas throughout the next few months. Also, if you want to learn more about using ChatGPT yourself, I highly recommend the CETL’s event next week, “What’s AI Got to Do With My Class?”

Now, a little bit of non-AI-generated inspiration for you:

Closing with this gem from Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer which feels perfect for this rainy day:

“I close my eyes and listen to the voices of the rain. The reflecting surface of the pool is textured with their signatures, each one different in pace and resonance. Every drip it seems is changed by its relationship with life, whether it encounters moss or maple or fir bark or my hair. And we think of it as simply rain, as if it were one thing, as if we understood it. I think that moss knows rain better than we do, and so do maples. Maybe there is no such thing as rain; there are only raindrops, each with its own story.”