AI as a Coach for Planning Teaching

The Copilot AI used at the University of Oulu and Oamk can be a great coach in your teaching work. When considering activation methods for large mass courses or assignments for activation discussions, you can brainstorm ideas with the AI. 

Open Copilot in the Microsoft Edge browser by clicking the Copilot icon on the right side of the browser window. You can enlarge the view to full screen. Write a sufficiently descriptive prompt for Copilot. It could be something like the following:  

"Generate activation tasks for a 300-student remote lecture to engage students and deepen their learning during the lecture. The topic of the lecture is the ethics of artificial intelligence. Provide at least ten different activation ideas."

Or, for example, the following:
"Create five alternative assignments for small group or pair discussions aimed at activating students during the lecture on the ethics of artificial intelligence."

Note that you can always refine your prompt if you do not get the desired result. You can also have a follow-up conversation with Copilot to get additional ideas or instructions on how to utilize the tools at your disposal. Remember that you are ultimately responsible for the outcome. AI can provide incorrect answers and unworkable ideas, but it can still be a valuable aid. 

I have used Copilot for various types of brainstorming. Copilot, or any suitable AI, is an easy and quick assistant for enriching and supporting your own ideas. 

Paula Vaskuri, teaching service center 18.2.2025