Research shows that students retain course content better when active learning is incorporated. AI can enhance active learning activities if used strategically and with clear parameters for appropriate student use. Here are several strategies for implementing AI as an active learning tool in your course.
What is Active Learning?
Active learning places students at the center of the learning process by engaging them directly in problem-solving and critical thinking. It is an interactive approach to learning that encourages active participation and engagement. This hands-on learning style allows students to apply the concepts and skills they are learning in meaningful ways.
Active Learning Strategies
- Think-Pair-Share
- Individuals respond, pair to compare, then share with the group. It is fast, low-prep, and works with any class size.
- One way to incorporate AI into this strategy is to think of it as “Think–AI–Pair–Share.” After considering a topic or question, students can enter it into their AI tool of choice before discussing it with a partner. They can then incorporate the AI-generated response into their conversation. Students can then compare the AI’s output with the ideas and insights generated through their discussion with one another.
- Problem-Based Learning
- Students tackle an open, authentic problem over time. This strategy builds transferable skills and self-direction.
- To incorporate AI into this strategy, have it generate a practical framework or plan for solving the problem rather than providing the solution itself. Instead of asking AI to produce the final answer, use it to create an open-ended structure that guides the student’s thinking. Students can then fill in the details, apply their knowledge, and work through the process to arrive at their own solution.
- Case-Based Learning
- Learners analyze a realistic scenario and defend a decision. This works because it successfully bridges theory and practice.
- When integrated into this strategy, AI can serve as a digital consultant. Students can use AI to explore hypothetical questions and test ideas, provided they are using effective prompts. AI can also help synthesize and condense information, allowing students to develop a concise summary of their decision and the reasoning behind it within the given scenario.
- Inquiry-Based Learning
- Students investigate a question and construct findings. This strategy develops scientific/critical reasoning.
- In this strategy, AI can serve as a research assistant. It can generate investigative questions, identify potential data sources, help organize findings, and suggest categories of information to collect. By supporting the research process, AI can help students focus on analyzing information and drawing meaningful conclusions.
While AI can be a powerful and helpful tool, students should never be outworked by it. Instructors should design active learning opportunities that require students to think beyond what AI can provide and assess those areas directly. Student work should never be entirely AI-generated; instead, AI should serve as a tool that supports and enhances the learning process.
If you want to learn more, watch the full training here!
Upcoming Events
Meeting Accessibility Standards in Canvas
July 8th, 1:30-2:30 PM
Facilitated by Leslie Fuller, Digital Learning Strategist
Join this session to learn how to ensure your Canvas course meets accessibility standards! This training will introduce you to digital accessibility standards and provide helpful guidelines and tips to ensure your Canvas course is accessible to all learners.
Workshop Wednesday: Easy HTML Editing in Canvas
July 15th, 1:30-2:30 PM
Facilitated by Millie Tullis, Digital Learning Strategist
Join this session to learn more about using easy HTML code in your Canvas course! This hands-on workshop is perfect for instructors who are new to HTML editing. This training will introduce you to a few easy ways to enhance your Canvas course using simple HTML. No prior coding experience is expected.
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Clemson Online Summer 2026 Events Calendar
Review our Summer 2026 Events Calendar to see what Online Instruction Development opportunities await!
We have a robust lineup of topics and live training formats to support your use of Canvas and other e-learning tools. Topics cover demonstrations of using Kaltura, engaging your students, and workshops to get your Canvas site ready to teach!
All of our live training is recorded. Registrants will automatically receive a link to that day’s video after it has been processed.
Contact Millie Tullis with any questions regarding these sessions.
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