Teaching historical thinking with Generative AI
Generative AI is rapidly developing and shaping the way that we engage with the internet. The findings from Stage 1 of the project suggest:
Many teachers and students are excited, but not sure, about the capabilities of Generative AI
There is a need to teach students explicitly about Generative AI, its utility and limitations
There is concern that using Generative AI might supplant, rather than enhance, students’ historical thinking
The activities suggested here aim to enhance students’ thinking skills and help the understand the possibilities and limitations of using Generative AI.
Generative AI Simulation
Chat-bots, powered by Large Language Model AI have the capacity to simulate historical voices. However, they are NOT historical voices. Rather than using a chatbot as an answer-machine, the focus of this activity is on scrutinising the AI and considering the implications for historical research and knowledge.
Aim of the learning activity:
For students to think historically about AI-generated output.
Sample Activity: A conversation with ‘Charlie’ the Virtual Veteran.
NSW Syllabus Reference: Stage 5 Depth study (core) – Australia: making a nation – from Federation to WWI (1889 – c. 1919): Battles in which Australians fought in WWI
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GenAI Propaganda Poster
Generative AI can be a helpful and fun tool for students to get artistic during history—especially if they are not confident with pen and paper. But there are limits. Teachers may wish to discuss these with their students. They may also wish to discuss ethical or environmental issues related to Generative AI, such as the ways that ChatGPT has been trained using artists’ work without their permission or compensation, or little acknowledge human labour to determine good and bad outputs by 21st Century moral standards.
Aim of the learning activity:
For students to understand the most effective prompt language to use to create an effective propaganda poster.
For students to synthesise their understanding of the images and slogans used during the Second World War.
Sample Activity: Using Generative AI to create a WWII propaganda poster.
NSW Syllabus Reference: Stage 5 Depth study (core) – Australia at war – WWII (1939 – c. 1945)
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