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AI & Information Literacy Assignment

Learn how I helped an instructor "AI-proof" his history course by creating an informational literacy assignment with AI. 

The Context

  • The Instructor: History 104: American History II instructor

  • The Problem: Students turn in AI-generated essays that are vague and general

  • Original Project Goal: AI-proof the course

  • Project Outcome: Created information literacy assignment that asks students to use and reflect on AI-generated work

Technologies Used

  • Blackboard Original 

  • Large Language Models (LLM): ChatGPT, Claude, etc.

  • Microsoft Word 

Assignment Directions

Before proceeding with the course, students are required to complete this assignment using a Chatbot such as ChatGPT or other Language Learning Model.

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To complete this assignment, please answer the following question, which is drawn from Lesson 1: Chapter 15: The Era of Reconstruction, 1865-1877.

 

Question: Did the South change politically, economically, and socially after the Civil War? Explain. How new was the “New South?”

 

  • This assignment must be completed using Microsoft Word. Important Note: As a registered student you have access to the complete Microsoft Office 365 suite at no charge. To download follow the instructions found at the UND Microsoft 365 Apps webpage.

  • Generate an approximate 500-word response to the question utilizing a Language Learning Model (LLM). This might be ChatGPT, Claude, CoPilot, etc.

  • Read Chapters 15 and 17 from your textbook.

  • Below the original answer rewrite the response to include evidence found in the text.

  • Compare the similarities and differences between the arguments found from ChatGPT and your text.

  • Write a short reflection of approximately 100-150 words on what you have learned regarding the benefits and disadvantages of using an LLM.

  • Your reflection should include a discussion on following:

    • What do you think are some of the built-in biases of such technology?

    • What are the implications for plagiarism?  

    • And of course, please discuss any thoughts you may have on this subject.

  • Does the LLM provide critical thinking or reflect on the subject?

 

You may feel the need to use an outside source to assist in understanding either the topic question, or the use of an LLM. If this is the case, limit your search for a selection to the Associated Press (AP), Reuters news agency, or an article found using Google Scholar. If you need further assistance starting this project, be sure to email me and I will be happy to assist you. 

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