McMaster launches Generative AI Guide to support instructors 

Educational developers at McMaster University have launched a new guidebook for instructors that outlines actionable advice for using generative artificial intelligence, including how it can be leveraged to support student learning, how it can be integrated into teaching practices and how assessment might need to change. 

The Generative Artificial Intelligence and Teaching and Learning at McMaster University Guidebook expands on the Provisional Guidelines produced by the Generative AI Task Force with additional information about the limitations and risks, guidance for McMaster-specific contexts, and more.  

“Providing guidance and examples of practical application for the classroom was a challenging task. There is very little peer-reviewed literature available to draw upon and the technology is constantly evolving,” said Erin Aspenlieder, associate director at the MacPherson Institute. “Our goal in writing the guidebook was to provide educators at McMaster with a clear understanding of the possibilities and challenges of working with generative AI in teaching and learning.”  

The Task Force and staff at the MacPherson Institute worked over the summer to research and write the guidebook on generative AI in teaching and learning to respond to the growing need for information on this topic by both instructors and students.   

“We recognize that this technology has impacts on both sides of teaching and learning. Students want to know what they can and cannot do with it, and instructors must be aware of the implications it has on the ways in which they design curriculum and assess learning,” said Aspenlieder, who also serves on the Task Force on Generative AI in Teaching and Learning. “The technology is evolving rapidly, but that’s why this work is so important right now. We need to start somewhere and be adaptable as it changes.” 

Educational developers from the MacPherson Institute who contributed to the Guidebook will also be offering workshops and consultations related to generative AI topics so that educators can explore and discuss together.  

Visit the MacPherson Institute’s Upcoming Events page for more details on these events or contact mi@mcmaster.ca to schedule a consultation with an educational developer.