Appropriate Use: Generative AI
Be aware that these Generative AI tools contain functionality which allows the upload of pictures and files. It is the responsibility of the user not to upload content or enter prompts which may generate inappropriate or concerning text or imagery, or which contains any personal, sensitive or confidential information.
Please also refer to the Scottish Government’s AI Guidance for Schools when using any kind of AI tool within education.
What is Guided Learning?
Guided Learning in Gemini is a personal AI learning companion that uses questions and step-by-step guidance to help you build a deep understanding of a subject rather than just getting quick answers.
It is designed to be a personalised and interactive experience, often leveraging technology to provide step-by-step support, visual aids, and interactive quizzes.
However, if your students don’t have direct access to Gemini, you can still adapt the core principles of guided learning to create a similar experience in your classroom.
Please note that Gemini is only available for staff within Glow
How can I use Guided Learning as an Educator?
Adapting Guided Learning Activities for the Classroom
The core of guided learning is breaking down complex topics and encouraging active participation. You can replicate this process using traditional classroom methods.
- Think-Pair-Share: Use Gemini to generate a thought-provoking question or a problem. Have students “think” about their answer individually, “pair” up with a classmate to discuss their ideas, and then “share” their combined thoughts with the larger group.
- Interactive Demonstrations: Use a projected display or a single computer to show the output from Gemini’s guided learning. As Gemini provides a step-by-step breakdown of a problem, you can pause at each step and ask the class questions, just as the AI would. This turns a passive viewing experience into an active, collaborative one.
- “Snowball” or “Paper Toss” Activity: Ask students to write a question they have about the topic on a piece of paper (or a small post-it note). They can then crumple the paper into a “snowball” and gently toss it across the room. Each student picks up a new snowball and tries to answer the question on it. This encourages peer-to-peer learning and active engagement.
- Fishbowl Discussions: Use Gemini to generate a controversial or complex topic. Arrange a small group of students in a circle in the center of the room to discuss the topic, while the rest of the class sits in an outer circle and observes. Students can take turns moving into the inner circle to contribute to the conversation.
Focus on Core Pedagogical Principles
Remember that the goal of guided learning is to foster a deeper understanding, not just to provide answers. The technology is a tool, but the underlying principles are timeless.
- Scaffolding: Break down difficult concepts into smaller, more manageable steps. This is the fundamental principle of Gemini’s guided learning and can be done effectively through your lesson planning and delivery.
- Active Engagement: Use techniques that require students to do more than just listen. This includes asking open-ended questions, having them write down their thoughts, and encouraging group work.
- Feedback and Assessment: Use the materials generated by Gemini (quizzes, discussion prompts, etc.) to gauge student understanding in real-time and provide targeted feedback.
By using Gemini as a powerful preparation tool and adapting its guided learning approach to suit a non-digital classroom, you can bring the benefits of AI-powered education to all of your students, regardless of their individual access to technology.
Video Example
This is an example of how Gemini works when asking a question, versus how Guided Learning works when asked the same question.
Please use the maximise button at the bottom right of each video to view it in full screen.