In this webinar, we will explore how generative AI can be used as a teaching tool to enhance literacy practices and personalized learning. You will receive an overview of generative AI, including ethical considerations, training on prompt engineering, and 12 practical examples of how generative AI can save you time. We will conclude with a discussion on the ethical future of generative AI.
RESOURCES and NOTES
The session was built around Matt Miller’s book “AI for Educators” and included both tested applications and original ideas from Harrington’s teaching practice. The key focus areas were:
- Basics of Generative AI – Differentiating it from traditional AI and explaining large language models (LLMs).
- Prompt Engineering – Crafting effective prompts to optimize AI output for educational purposes.
- Classroom Applications – Sharing 12 specific, time-saving uses of generative AI for tasks like content generation, assessment support, differentiated learning, rubric creation, and parent communication.
The session also addressed environmental and ethical concerns tied to AI’s use, such as:
- High electricity and water use for training and running LLMs.
- Poor working conditions for data labelers in countries like Kenya.
- Data privacy and policy compliance within school boards.
Deidre emphasized AI as a support tool, not a replacement for educators, and highlighted the importance of critical evaluation, responsible use, and personalizing content to suit student needs.
Key Concepts Covered
Generative AI Foundations
- Generative AI vs Traditional AI
- Large Language Models (GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, LLaMA)
- Prompt engineering strategies (context, specificity, iterative dialogue)
Educational Use Cases
- Vocabulary instruction via Frayer models
- Simplified/leveled reading materials
- Summaries of complex texts
- Review content creation (quizzes, mnemonics, flashcards)
- Student exemplars and peer editing tools
- Math/science problem-solving explanations
- IEP writing support
- Resource curation
- Curriculum alignment and gap analysis
- Rubric generation
- Parent communication templates
- Letters of recommendation drafting
Ethical and Practical Considerations
- Environmental impact: power, water, and labor ethics
- Data privacy and compliance with board policies
- Role of AI in assessments (ethical boundaries, AI-assisted vs AI-generated)
- Reliability and vetting of AI-suggested resources
Online Resources Mentioned
- AI for Educators by Matt Miller
https://ditchthattextbook.com/ai-edu/ - Environmental Impact of AI
MIT News article:
https://news.mit.edu/2025/explained-generative-ai-environmental-impact-0117 - Labour Concerns with AI
ScienceDirect article:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024166716 - ETFO AI Guidance
https://www.etfo.ca/about-us/member-advice/prs-matters-bulletins/artificial-intelligence-in-education-advice-for-members - AIDA (Artificial Intelligence and Data Act)
https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/innovation-better-canada/en/artificial-intelligence-and-data-act - Presentation Slides
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1RIFqCJxyvgnkar3VFQIPhI7oZw77O6m9dBpIV-0oI5c/view - OTF Connects Calendar
https://www.otffeo.on.ca/en/learning/otf-connects/calendar/ - OTF YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/OTFYouTube
Deidre Harrington
This is Deidre Harrington’s 20th year in education. She holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Library and Information Science from Western University. Over the years, she has served in various roles, including classroom teacher, eLearning instructor, summer school teacher, department head, Learning Technologies Coordinator, and Ministry course writer.
Deidre’s goal is to empower educators to integrate technology effectively to enhance student engagement while also recognizing that mistakes are inevitable, and learning can be messy. She has shared her digital misadventures in professional development presentations both locally and at provincial conferences such as BOLTT and OTKR12.
Deidre says she currently has the best job in Thames Valley as a Teacher-Librarian at a large, rural school. Additionally, she chairs the Teacher Education Liaison Committee at Western University where she enjoys collaborating with Teacher Candidates and Faculty.