The Open Classroom Initiative (OCI) 2024-25 focuses on innovative AI integration in teaching and learning practices. This semester's OCI offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn from colleagues who are incorporating AI tools in their teaching practice. By observing, you can explore new strategies to potentially adapt in your own teaching practice.

Open Classroom Sessions (Venue details provided upon registration):

1. Generative AI for Effective Learning of Programming Languages

Instructor: Dr. Alexander VASILYEV
Course: Python Programming for Beginners
Type: Free Elective, Multiple Years
Date & Time: 5 Nov 2024, 13:00 - 13:50
Description: My class will demonstrate how AI chat bots (ChatGPT 4.0) enhance the learning of programming languages. First of all, the chat bot is used for testing the knowledge of students for identifying their level of proficiency in programming. Secondly, the chat bot is used for analysis of the problems' solutions given by students, for suggesting the areas of improvement and for generating similar problems for practice. The instructor assesses the performance of students in solving AI-generated problems, gives the corresponding scores and the tasks for the next class. This workflow allows to significantly reduce the workload of instructor and introduces personalized approach in education.

2. From Prompt to Production: Leveraging AI for Strategic Campaign Innovation

Instructor: Dr. Chally Chai Lee LIM

Course: Public Relations and Advertising Strategic Campaigns

Type: Major Required, Year 4

Date & Time: 18 Nov 2024, 15:00 - 16:50

Description: In this class on Public Relations and Advertising Strategic Campaigns, AI enhances learning through hands-on experience with AI-generated content creation. Students begin with a creative brief, use a chatbot to brainstorm conceptual and message strategies. They then apply transfer learning and fine-tuning to AIGC Youyan to generate 3D videos, selecting avatars, backgrounds, colors, and voiceovers aligned to the brand identity. Throughout this process, students learn the importance of prompt literacy, teamwork, and the integration of AI with human creativity and critical thinking. The class showcases how AI empowers strategic campaigns, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between AI and human input for innovative outcomes.

How to Register as an Observer:

1. Visit the Online Application System (http://oas.uic.edu.cn/) to select sessions. Each session allows up to 5 observers on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline to register is 12 pm, 4      November 2024.

2. Join the WeCom group created for each session. This group will include the host and other observers, providing a space for pre- and post-session discussions.

3. Attend the session in full to gain a comprehensive understanding of the teaching practices demonstrated.

4. Complete the Observation Feedback Form (Attachment 2), focusing on AI integration’s effectiveness, student engagement, and insights gained, and submit it to Ms. Yao Wang (yaowang@uic.edu.cn).

Certificate of Participation:
Observers who complete the Observation Feedback Form after at least one session will receive a certificate acknowledging their commitment to peer development.

We encourage your participation in this AI-focused OCI and believe it will provide valuable insights into the future of technology-enhanced education.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me (edithyan@uic.edu.cn) or Ms. Yao Wang (yaowang@uic.edu.cn).