Motivation is a central theme in the literature surrounding the use of chatbots in education. Yin et al. (2021) found that integrating chatbot-based learning can enhance student motivation without negatively affecting academic performance. Chen et al. (2023) echoed this sentiment, further highlighting that chatbots can play a valuable role in classrooms with high teacher-to-student ratios by providing additional support. A key feature of chatbots is their ability to deliver personalized, one-to-one assistance within the classroom. This form of individualized support can significantly enhance students' comprehension of intended learning outcomes and promote sustained engagement with academic content.
As shown in the image from Boston College (2024), the functions and features of chatbots in education can be extensive. The diagram illustrates the various roles chatbots can play in classroom settings. The following section highlights a selection of these AI roles and provides brief examples demonstrating how they can be effectively integrated into teaching practice. Follow along with the videos below to customize four different chatbot roles that you could integrate into your classroom.
View the video to the left for an introduction to SchoolAI, the platform that will be used throughout the following video series to illustrate its application within educational settings.
Note: A free version of SchoolAI was used to create the demonstration videos. Access to the platform requires a login and account. Before using SchoolAI or any AI tool in the classroom, we recommend reviewing your institution’s policies regarding the use of artificial intelligence in educational settings.
Although this video is lengthy, watching it will enhance your understanding of utilizing ChatGPT in the classroom. Below are two more ideas on how ChatGPT can be used in your classroom.
Note: A free version of ChatGPT was used to complete the activities below, and no login or account was required. As with any AI tool, please ensure you review and follow your institution’s policies regarding its use in the classroom.
To start with this option of chatbot integration, copy and paste the following prompt into ChatGPT:
Give structured feedback on the following excerpt of writing. Do not reword, rephrase, or redo any of the work provided. Provide a list of ways that the student can improve grammar, spelling, phrasing, and sentence structure.
Then, copy and paste the following when prompted to:
golden retireivers are a specific breed of dog. This means that they are different from other breeds of dogs, such as rottweilers, Dashunds, and cocker spaniels. golden retrieveiers also make good family pets. this is because they are friendly, nice, and like to be around people
Then, use the next prompt:
What are ways that I could expand on topics around golden retrievers?
To start with this option of chatbot integration, copy and paste the following prompt into ChatGPT:
Create a list of final course project ideas centered around British Columbia's Social Studies 11 curriculum. Include 5 different options.
Then, use the next prompt (and fill in the blanks):
I like option . How should I start this project?
What did ChatGPT give you for a response?
Do you feel that the program correctly identified and demonstrated to a student how to fix their work?
Do you feel that it expanded the topic in an appropriate way?
What did ChatGPT give you for a response?
Do you feel that it guided the students into an appropriate direction?
Did it provide enough detail to help a student get started?