Activity 4: Comparing Student AI Tools

In this activity, you will work in groups of 2 or 3. Each group will be assigned one of the following AI tutoring tools to understand how to solve systems of linear equations:

1. Tutor Me
2. Magic School AI
   • Go to “MagicStudent” in the top right
3. Playlab AI tool

Note: Try using a different tool than the one assigned in the previous activity!

Objective

Act as a student seeking help from the assigned AI tutoring tool.

1. Engage in a back-and-forth conversation to develop a better understanding of the topic.
2. After the conversation, answer practice questions provided by the tool to receive feedback on your understanding.
3. Bonus: Try finding a way to share your conversation with your teacher.

Topic: Solving Systems of Linear Equations

Context: Assume you already understand how to solve single-variable, multi-step equations. Use the tool to learn how to solve systems of linear equations using methods such as substitution and elimination.

Instructions

1. Sign up for your tool: Ensure one group member creates an account for your assigned tool (note that Flexi does not require an account).

2. Engage in Conversation: Use the assigned AI tool to ask questions and get explanations on solving systems of linear equations. Focus on understanding the methods and steps involved.

   With Magic School AI, go to MagicStudent and select the Tutor Me with AI tools

3. Answer Practice Questions: Use the tool to get practice questions on the topic. Answer these questions and use the feedback provided to improve your understanding.

   Try seeing what happens if you get some answers wrong!

4. Submit Feedback: Once you have completed the activity, fill out the online feedback form.

Example Prompts to Get Started:

• “Teach me about negative exponents”
• “I’m struggling with solving this linear equation: 2x + 3 = 7. Can you walk me through the steps?”
• “Can you explain the quotient rule of exponents with some examples?”
• “How do I add and subtract polynomials? For example: (2x + 3) - (3x - 2)”
• “How do I simplify the expression (4x^2)/(2x)?”

Tips for Interacting with AI Tutors:

• Aim to learn and understand the material, not just to get the answers.
• Always ask ChatGPT to explain the process rather than just solve the problem for you.
• Ask follow-up questions if you are still unclear.
• To help type math, use these keyboard shortcuts:
  • Addition (+): Use the + key.
  • Subtraction (-): Use the - key.
  • Multiplication (×): Use the * key.
  • Division (÷): Use the / key.
  • Equals (=): Use the = key.
  • Greater Than (>): Use the > key.
  • Less Than (<): Use the < key.
  • Powers (x²): Use the ^ symbol followed by the exponent. For example: x^2
  • Square Root: Type \sqrt{} using the {} brackets to enclose the argument. For example: \sqrt{4}

Feedback Form

After completing your handout, please fill out the form below to provide feedback on your assigned tool:

Learning Outcome

• By the end of this activity, you should have practical experience using an AI tutoring tool from a student’s perspective.
• You will gain insights into the usability and effectiveness of different AI tools in providing educational support and feedback.

Resources

• Access to Tutor Me
• Access to Flexi
• Access to Magic School AI