
In this episode of “AI Fishbowl,” co-hosts Zia Hassan and Audrey Ellis are joined by Michaela Pacesova, a computer science instructor at Montgomery College, to explore practical ways to integrate AI into teaching. Michaela shares her journey from running an e-learning business to teaching introductory programming courses and the challenges that come with engaging first-year and dual enrollment students with varying levels of tech proficiency. Here’s How: 1. Creating an Interactive Syllabus with AI: Michaela and the hosts demonstrate how to use ChatGPT to transform a traditional syllabus into an interactive tool that answers student questions, provides resources, and offers study schedules. 2. Incorporating Tutorials and Resources: Learn how to upload specific tutorials and resources into ChatGPT to guide students effectively without overwhelming them. 3. Encouraging Student Resourcefulness: Discover strategies to help students become more self-sufficient, using AI tools to find solutions before reaching out for help. 4. Using AI for Personalized Study Plans: See how AI can assist students in planning their study schedules around their busy lives, making learning more accessible. Tune in to this hands-on episode to see practical examples and gain insights on leveraging AI tools to enhance student learning and engagement in the classroom. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - 00:00:14 | Introduction 00:00:14 - 00:00:53 | Opening Remarks 00:00:53 - 00:01:14 | Introducing Michaela 00:01:14 - 00:02:15 | Michaela's Background 00:02:15 - 00:03:48 | Challenges in Teaching Intro to Programming 00:03:48 - 00:05:45 | Engaging Students with AI Tools 00:05:45 - 00:07:30 | Creating an Interactive Syllabus 00:07:30 - 00:08:25 | Benefits of an Interactive Syllabus 00:08:25 - 00:09:50 | Encouraging Student Resourcefulness 00:09:50 - 00:11:10 | Using AI for Personalized Study Plans 00:11:10 - 00:12:50 | Implementing AI in the Classroom 00:12:50 - 00:14:25 | Michaela's Reflections on AI Tools 00:14:25 - 00:16:00 | Final Thoughts and Takeaways 00:16:00 - 00:18:00 | Closing Remarks