Technology can enhance–even transform–a teaching and learning context when used thoughtfully. Technology can foster collaboration and communication, connect learners and educators in important ways, foster community and inclusion, and help students progress at their own pace and explore ideas in depth. Yet, the opposite is also true. As with any tool, approach or method, it is important to ask:
What is my goal in using this technology?
How will this technology support my teaching and/or my students’ learning?
How will I know whether this technology will help me achieve my goal?
Educause is a great resource to learn, discuss, and innovate with teaching technologies.
The use of AI in teaching and learning occupies a dramatically changing space in higher education. The Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS), a tool developed by Perkins et al (2024), may provide some useful guidance around the appropriate level of Generative AI usage in assessments based on the intended learning outcomes.
RFU instructors can also access the AI at RFU Resources Share Drive which is designed to foster ideas and resource-sharing throughout the university, to enhance our collective understanding of the use of AI in teaching and research, and to promote transparency and collaboration in our practice.
Resources:
RFU University-approved AI tools (InSite Page)
Perkins, M., Furze, L., Roe, J., MacVaugh, J. (2024). The Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS): A Framework for Ethical Integration of Generative AI in Educational Assessment. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 21(6). https://doi.org/10.53761/q3azde36
Online collaboration tools offer students a way to engage with material using a digital "bulletin board". Padlet is a commonly used tool that allows students to collaborate in real time, adding text, images, links, and other custom elements.
For example, students can use Padlet in the following ways:
Presentation: Students can share a board with generated ideas and images
Brainstorm: Students can asynchronously add ideas to a Padlet board and review as a whole after everyone has contributed
Share resources: Students can use the Padlet board as a repository for all sources they have come across for the whole class to see
Introductions: Students can use the space to add a picture of themselves and a short bio introducing themselves to the class to create community.
Educators can use polling tools, such as PollEverywhere, to engage with their students in a variety of meaningful ways. Educators may have different goals, which would require them to decide what question type to use and at what point in the session, should they implement them.
To demonstrate prior knowledge, comprehension or recall:
Example: For anatomy review, what are the two types of cartilage in joints?
A. Articular Hyaline & Meniscus
B. Meniscus & Elastic
C. Meniscus & Articular Hyaline
To analyze, synthesize or evaluate information:
Example: Upload an X-Ray picture to Poll everywhere and ask students to simulate diagnosing a break in bones by selecting where the break is in the image.
Hypothesize or predict an answer:
Example: Create a short answer question: “How will environmental health factors influence care for someone living in a low-income area with type II diabetes?”
Resources:
Arjomandi, A., Paloyo, A., & Suardi, S. (2023). Active learning and academic performance: The case of real-time interactive student polling. 22(1), 3–3. https://doi.org/10.52041/serj.v22i1.122
RFU’s Online Learning and Instructional Design (OLID) department offers course development, online course review, and support for instructional design projects. OLID@RosalindFranklin.edu .
RFU uses the D2L Brightspace Learning Management System (LMS) to manage classes, track assignments, and provide resources all in one online space. D2L also offers features including discussions, quizzes, and grades, making it easier to stay organized and engaged with students. Instructors wishing to get started with this tool and learn basic featurescan contact HelpDesk@RosalindFranklin.edu to set up a meeting.