Educators Across Utah Explore Practical AI Applications in Teaching and Learning
As artificial intelligence continues to shape education, providing educators with
opportunities to build AI literacy and explore responsible implementation remains
an important part of preparing learners for the future.
Recently, educators from K-12 and higher education institutions across Utah gathered
at the University of Utah for professional development sessions focused on practical
applications of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. The training was
led by Matt Winters, AI Education Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, in partnership with
Google Certified Trainer and coach Chris McCaffrey.
Hosted in partnership with the University of Utah's Office of Artificial Intelligence,
the sessions provided participants with hands-on learning opportunities designed to
help educators better understand emerging AI technologies and explore ways to integrate
them thoughtfully into their work. Special thanks to the Scientific Computing and
Imaging Institute (SCI) for welcoming attendees into its innovative facilities and
creating an engaging environment for learning and collaboration.
Throughout the sessions, participants explored topics such as AI literacy, instructional
applications of generative AI, prompt development strategies, classroom and curriculum
integration, responsible AI practices, and emerging opportunities for supporting teaching
and learning. The collaborative format encouraged educators to share experiences,
ask questions, and examine real-world examples that can help advance student success
while maintaining a strong focus on responsible and ethical use.
As Winters noted, "Just because students have grown up in a digital world doesn't mean they're automatically experts in AI. Many are still learning how to use these tools effectively and responsibly. As educators, we have an important role to play in developing our own understanding of AI so we can help students build the skills and judgment needed to use these technologies in ways that support their learning, their work, and the goals they're pursuing."
The event highlighted the value of collaboration among K-12 education, higher education,
industry, and state partners as AI continues to shape teaching, learning, and workforce
development. By bringing educators together to explore practical applications of AI,
these professional development opportunities help build the knowledge, confidence,
and skills needed to prepare students for an increasingly AI-enabled future.
The professional development sessions were offered at no cost to participants. K-12
teachers who complete qualifying activities may be eligible for a $200 DonorsChoose
classroom grant. Additional information, eligibility requirements, and session recordings are available for those interested in exploring the content.
The University of Utah thanks Matt Winters, Chris McCaffrey, the Utah State Board of Education, Google for Education, and the
many educators who participated in the sessions for helping advance AI literacy and
responsible AI adoption across Utah.