AI image generation is an exciting, and still emerging, tool in education. Helping students understand and use it responsibly isn’t optional; it’s a key part of preparing them for the future. These tools unlock a world of creative possibilities but using them well takes guidance and structure.
Explore these practical strategies and classroom management tips for teachers to effectively optimize the use of AI image generation.
AI Classroom Strategies
- Get expert advice. BEFORE generating an image, use ChatGPT or Copilot to improve your text prompt description. For example, I would like to make an image. How could I improve this description, “type in your prompt”.
- Small groups only! Restrict the number of students generating images at one time.
- At your limit? Switch to a different AI Image Generator, when an image cap is reached.
- Want more AI tools? Refer to the blog Best Free AI Image Generators For Students And Young Creators for a list of free AI Image Generators. Place this list on a class page, in a shared bookmark folder, or resource library for the students.
- Want to make changes? Most AI Image Generators cannot edit a generated image. Instead, they use the requested modifications to create an entirely new image. Copilot and Google Gemini are tools that do respond to revisions.
- Pick a style. Some AI Image Generators let you choose a look such as realistic, cartoon, anime, pop art, or fantasy. If there isn’t a style menu, students can simply describe the look they want by adding it to their text prompt. Just add “in the style of …” to the description. For example, “a dragon flying over a mountain in the style of fantasy art” or “a robot playing guitar in the style of a comic book”.
- Need a series of images? If students are telling a story, they may want the same character to appear in every image. However, AI Image Generators generally create each image from scratch, making character consistency difficult. To work around this, try leaving out the character and focusing on the setting instead. By repeating the same setting, mood, and style in each prompt, students can maintain a uniform look across the series.
- Team up. Work with a partner or in a group to generate a bank of images on the topic. Share them to a directory or class AI library.
- Teach responsible digital citizenship by giving credit. Have students acknowledge the source of the image. This promotes ethical use of technology and shows respect for creators. Some AI Image Generators will generate a citation. Just ask, “Can you give me the citation for this image?”
- Are computers freezing? If the school network becomes sluggish when generating images, have students complete this task at home.
Put AI to Work in Your Classroom
Bringing AI Image Generators into the classroom can be both engaging and manageable with effective management routines. By combining smart tech tips with AI classroom strategies, you can keep students focused, responsible, and engaged.
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