Simplified grading and feedback

Grading can be time-consuming, but AI offers innovative solutions to make this process more efficient and equitable.

• Rubric generation: Create detailed, clear rubrics that provide transparent assessment criteria. I’ve even used AI to generate rubrics for math problems, so students know exactly what is expected of them and to ensure I’m grading each student the exact same.
• Feedback templates: To improve feedback for student assignments, you can use AI to generate personalized templates that highlight common mistakes. This method has been a game changer for me because it streamlines grading by allowing me to quickly copy/paste relevant comments into students’ work. It saves time while ensuring consistent, specific guidance, ultimately enhancing student learning outcomes in my online classes.

Communication support

As higher ed instructors, we are constantly flooded with requests for recommendation letters, questions about extra credit, and more. Here is how AI can help you communicate faster and more effectively.

• Challenging emails: Get help composing professional, clear communications to students, administrators, colleagues, etc. Last month, I had a failing student ask me for more extra credit opportunities. What I really wanted to say was, “If you did the regular credit in the first place, you wouldn’t need extra credit. No, you cannot.” However, that’s not a supportive email. So, I used AI to help! I uploaded the student’s email without the student's name (privacy) and exactly what I wanted to say. Then I asked it to make my response more friendly and supportive. Here is what the AI came up with:

Thank you for your email about extra credit opportunities. I understand your concern about your grade, but I can't offer additional extra credit beyond what's in the syllabus. This ensures fairness for all students. Instead, I encourage you to:

1. Review past assignments to identify areas for improvement

2. Attend my office hours for help with challenging topics

3. Form a study group with classmates

4. Use campus tutoring services

There's still time to improve your grade through remaining coursework. If you'd like to discuss study strategies, please schedule a meeting with me.

• Recommendation letters: We tend to get so many requests for these all at once, and I feel like, for me at least, it’s always at the start of the term or leading up to finals when I’m already super busy with other things. Here’s how AI can help! You can use a generative AI program to write an initial draft of a recommendation letter that captures a student's academic achievements and potential. Simply ask the AI program to write a recommendation letter for a student in your ___ class that received a grade of ___. Then list off the attributes you’d like the letter to encompass. Within seconds, you’ll have a great draft to work with, and it’ll only take a few tweaks to make it your own. Just remember, when generating drafts, never include identifiable student information. Use generic descriptors like “student in [subject] class” and focus on academic achievements and potential.

Incorporating AI into your teaching toolbox doesn’t mean replacing the human touch — it means enhancing it. By leveraging AI tools for grading, feedback, and communication, you can free up valuable time to connect with your students and focus on what truly matters: fostering their love for mathematics.

Whether it’s streamlining repetitive tasks or helping you craft thoughtful, supportive messages, AI can serve as a powerful ally in the classroom. As you explore these tools, remember that you’re not just embracing technology; you’re empowering yourself and your students to reach new heights in education. With AI as your sidekick, the possibilities are endless!