Faculty and Staff Repository

AI tools can significantly enhance the course planning and design process, helping faculty create more engaging, well-structured, and effective learning experiences. This guide explores how to use AI strategically throughout the course development process, from initial planning to final implementation.

1. Course Framework Development

AI Prompt Template:

"Create a detailed framework for a [course level] course in [subject area]. Include:

Core topics and their sequence
Learning objectives for each unit
Suggested time allocations
Prerequisites and foundational knowledge"

2. Learning Objectives Alignment

AI Prompt Template:

"Review and refine these learning objectives for a [course name] to ensure they are:

Measurable and specific
Aligned with program outcomes
Appropriate for the course level
Progressive in cognitive complexity"

Module Planning

Structure Development:
"Design a module outline for [topic] that includes: - Key concepts and theories - Real-world applications - Common misconceptions - Assessment opportunities"
Resource Curation:
"Suggest diverse learning resources for [topic] including: - Multimedia content - Case studies - Interactive activities - Supplementary readings"

Activity Design

Engagement Strategies:
"Generate active learning activities for [concept] that: - Promote critical thinking - Encourage collaboration - Apply theoretical knowledge - Support diverse learning styles"
Assessment Integration:
"Create formative assessment opportunities that: - Check understanding - Provide immediate feedback - Guide future learning - Support self-reflection"

Timeline Development

Sample Prompt:

"Create a 15-week course schedule for [course name] that includes:

Weekly topics and objectives
Assignment due dates
Reading schedules
Assessment timelines

Resource Organization

Content sequencing strategies
Material accessibility planning
Technology integration points
Support resource development

Evaluation Strategy Development

AI Prompt Template:

"Design an assessment strategy for [course] that includes:

Formative and summative assessments
Rubric development guidelines
Feedback mechanisms
Progress tracking methods"

Rubric Creation

Clear performance criteria
Level descriptions
Scoring guidelines
Feedback templates

Quality Assurance

Review AI-generated content for accuracy
Align with institutional standards
Maintain academic rigor
Ensure accessibility compliance

Customization Strategies

Adapt for specific student needs
Incorporate discipline-specific elements
Consider local context
Allow for flexibility

Course Outline Development

Initial Prompt: "Create a detailed outline for an introductory psychology course focusing on key theories, research methods, and practical applications."

Refinement Prompt: "Modify this outline to include more experiential learning opportunities and contemporary case studies."

Assignment Design

Initial Prompt: "Generate a scaffolded research project for a sociology course that develops students' research and analysis skills."

Refinement Prompt: "Add checkpoints and peer review components to support student success."

Effective AI-assisted course design should:

Start with clear learning objectives
Maintain pedagogical best practices
Include varied learning activities
Integrate meaningful assessments
Consider diverse student needs

Faculty and Staff AI Resource Repository

Course Planning and Design with AI

1. Course Framework Development

2. Learning Objectives Alignment

Module Planning

Activity Design

Timeline Development

Resource Organization

Evaluation Strategy Development

Rubric Creation

Quality Assurance

Customization Strategies

Course Outline Development

Assignment Design