^{Themes: Administrative applications, Assessment, Engagement, How I’ve been using AI, Lesson planning, Specific AI Tool(s)
Audience & Subject: General (All Grades)}

Introduction

MagicSchool AI is an educational platform that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to assist teachers in creating instructional materials, differentiating for students’ needs, and engaging with families and communities. This guide will walk you through the platform’s features, best practices for AI use in education, and how to navigate and use the 70+ tools.

Features of MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool AI is powered by multiple Large Language Models (LLMs), including OpenAI’s GPT 3.5 and GPT 4. These models are chosen based on their ability to perform various tasks, and the platform continuously tests and refines these models for optimal outcomes. Some of MagicSchool’s Tools include:

• The Rubric Generator: This tool allows you to create custom rubrics for your class, which helps grade assignments and provide student feedback.
• The Sentence Starters: This tool provides sentences for any topic, assignment, standard, or objective, making it easy for teachers to create instructional materials.
• The Email Responder: This tool allows you to reply to emails in a personal and timely manner, citing the original email.
• The IEP Suggestion Generator: This tool helps you draft an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students who need support, have a 504 plan, or have an IEP/BIP.

Best Practices for Using AI in Education

There are several best practices for using AI in education:

• Check for Bias and Accuracy: AI might occasionally produce biased or incorrect content. Always double-check before sharing with students.
• The 80-20 Approach: Use AI for initial work, but make sure to add your final touch, review for bias and accuracy, and contextualize appropriately.
• Your Judgment Matters: AI-generated content should be a starting point, not a final solution. Always adhere to your school’s guidelines and use your judgment to enhance the content.
• Know the Limits: The AI’s knowledge is limited by its last training date. Always keep this in mind while using the platform.

Navigating and Using the Tools

MagicSchool AI is designed to be user-friendly. You can navigate the platform’s tools by searching for a specific tool by name in the search bar or clicking the category buttons. The platform offers a list of tools that you might find helpful, and you can even star your favourites for easy access later.

Modifying and Exporting Outputs

MagicSchool AI allows you to modify your outputs easily. You can use the Actions bar at the bottom of your generation to change the length of your output, generate questions based on your output, and translate your output to different languages. You can copy your outputs to the clipboard and paste them into a document of your choice or export them to other platforms.

Meet Raina, The AI Chat Bot

Raina is your AI instructional coach. She is trained on best educational practices and is here to offer advice, ideas, and more for your classroom. You can also use her to communicate with students’ families, making her a valuable tool for community engagement.

In conclusion, MagicSchool AI is a fantastic resource for educators looking to enhance their teaching and engage with their students and families. By leveraging the power of AI, this platform provides a quick and easy way to create instructional materials, differentiate for students’ needs, and engage with the community.

Activities

Activity 1: Lesson Plan Analysis

Overview

This activity aims to enhance teachers’ understanding and evaluation skills regarding lesson plans generated by MagicSchool AI. By critically analyzing the AI-generated lesson plans, educators can assess their alignment with learning objectives, instructional strategies, and student needs.

Description

Teachers will be provided with a set of lesson plans generated by MagicSchool AI across different subjects and grade levels. They will work individually or in small groups to review and analyze these lesson plans, considering factors such as clarity of objectives, appropriateness of instructional methods, differentiation for diverse learners, and assessment strategies. Participants will document their findings, including strengths and areas for improvement, and engage in reflective discussions about the effectiveness and potential enhancements of AI-generated lesson planning.

Key Benefits

• Enhances educators’ capacity for critical evaluation of instructional materials;
• Fosters reflection on pedagogical practices and alignment with learning objectives; and
• Promotes collaboration and sharing of best practices among teachers.

Possible Challenges

One potential challenge is the reliance on AI-generated content without thorough scrutiny, leading to the perpetuation of biases or inaccuracies. Teachers must be vigilant in examining the content for cultural relevance, inclusivity, and accuracy. Additionally, concerns about over-reliance on technology and the potential loss of creativity in lesson planning may exist.

Support Materials

• Sample AI-generated lesson plans from MagicSchool AI;
• Rubric for evaluating lesson plans; and
• Articles or videos discussing the role of AI in education and the importance of critical evaluation.

Activity 2: Customization and Adaptation Exercise

Overview

This activity aims to empower teachers to customize and adapt AI-generated instructional materials to meet the unique needs of their students and teaching contexts. Educators can enhance their creativity, pedagogical flexibility, and responsiveness to diverse learners by engaging in this exercise.

Description

Teachers will select an AI-generated lesson plan from MagicSchool AI and identify areas for customization based on their students’ interests, prior knowledge, and learning styles. They will brainstorm modifications to the content, instructional strategies, and assessment methods to better align with their specific teaching context and student needs. Participants will then implement these adaptations in their classrooms and reflect on the effectiveness of the modifications in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.

Key Benefits

• Encourages teachers to take ownership of instructional materials and tailor them to their students’ needs;
• Promotes creativity and innovation in lesson design and delivery; and
• Empower educators to address diverse learning preferences and student backgrounds.

Possible Challenges

A potential challenge is the need for teachers to balance fidelity to the original lesson plan with the customization process. It’s essential to preserve the core learning objectives and instructional principles while making adaptations to ensure coherence and effectiveness. Additionally, educators may encounter resistance or skepticism from students or colleagues regarding changes to familiar instructional materials.

Support Materials

• AI-generated lesson plans from MagicSchool AI;
• Templates for lesson plan customization;
• Strategies for differentiation and personalized learning; and
• Peer feedback protocols for sharing and evaluating adapted lesson plans.

About the author

name: John Workman

John Workman is a dedicated educator and facilitator passionate about leveraging technology to enhance learning. As a previous Additional Qualification Instructor for ETFO, he has played a significant role in the professional development of teachers, emphasizing the importance of integrating innovative teaching methods and technology in the classroom. John’s commitment to educational excellence is evident in his work as a Durham District School Board professional development facilitator. His recent completion of the Artificial Intelligence for Teaching and Learning Certificate program at Ontario Tech University equips him with the latest knowledge and skills in applying AI in education. John’s blend of practical teaching experience and expertise in generative AI technologies positions him as an insightful instructor for those interested in the transformative potential of AI in educational settings.