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Definition: Generative AI — a type of AI that can create content, including text, images, video, and audio.
Definition: Generative AI — a type of AI that can create content, including text, images, video, and audio.
How Generative AI Works
Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content—such as text, images, music, or code—by learning patterns from existing data. At its core, generative AI relies on machine learning, a process where computer systems are trained to recognize patterns and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed for every possible scenario.
The most common type of generative AI used in education today is based on large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT. These models are trained on vast amounts of text from books, websites, academic journals, and other sources. During training, the AI learns how language works—understanding grammar, facts, concepts, tone, and even how to follow instructions. This training process involves billions (or even trillions) of words and takes place on powerful computer systems over extended periods of time.
Image source: Raihan Nugroho Jauhari
Once trained, the AI can generate responses by predicting what comes next in a sequence of words, based on the patterns it has learned. For example, if a student asks the AI to summarize a historical event, it doesn't “know” history like a person does, but it generates a response by assembling information that matches the patterns of similar summaries it saw during training.
It’s important to know that generative AI does not "think" or "understand" in the human sense. It doesn't know if something is right or wrong—it simply predicts what is likely to come next based on its training. As a result, its output can be helpful, but it can also include errors, outdated information, or biased language. That’s why human judgment is essential when using these tools in educational settings.
Image source: Everton Gomede, PhD
For educators, this means generative AI can assist with lesson planning, idea generation, differentiation, and more—but it should be used thoughtfully and critically. With the right guidance, it can become a powerful partner in teaching and learning.
Source: OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (Version GPT-4o). Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://chatgpt.com/.
Examples of Generative AI Tools
An AI-powered conversational tool that can generate text, answer questions, and assist with tasks like lesson planning, writing prompts, and grading support. It helps educators save time and personalize instruction with flexible, on-demand responses.
A generative AI platform designed specifically for educators, offering tools to create rubrics, modify texts for different reading levels, draft emails, and generate lesson resources aligned with educational standards.
A teacher-focused AI tool that transforms content into leveled readings, comprehension questions, and instructional materials, making it easier to differentiate lessons for diverse student needs.
A free design platform for teachers and students that includes templates for presentations, posters, and infographics, now enhanced with AI tools for quick content creation and visual storytelling.
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