Transforming Teaching and Learning with Generative AI
- published: 2025/02/12
- contact: UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)
- email: innovate@unomaha.edu
AI is revolutionizing traditional educational practices, providing instructors and students with tools to create engaging and effective learning environments. The University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) is at the forefront of this transformation, integrating AI into classrooms to enhance instruction, improve course design, and foster ethical use of technology. Below, we highlight three projects that showcase how generative AI is shaping the future of teaching and learning.
AI in Public Speaking Class
Project Lead: Amy Jo Ellefson
In the Fundamentals of Public Speaking course (CMST 1110), Amy Jo Ellefson is equipping students with hands-on experience using AI tools like ChatGPT. Students use AI to generate speech outlines, fact-check content, and add reliable citations. They also refine the AI-generated language to align with their personal speaking styles. This innovative approach not only strengthens their public speaking skills but also teaches ethical and responsible AI usage, preparing students to harness AI effectively in academic and professional contexts.
AI in Strategic Writing
Project Lead: Nicky Chang Bi
In fields like public relations, marketing, and advertising, strategic writing is essential—and AI is proving to be a valuable ally. Nicky Chang Bi’s course focuses on using AI tools to enhance students’ strategic writing skills. From crafting press releases and social media campaigns to refining client messaging, students gain practical experience leveraging AI to boost creativity and precision. The course also emphasizes ethical considerations, ensuring students learn to use AI responsibly while mastering cutting-edge tools.
Exploring AI in Advanced Composition
Project Lead: Josefa Samper Suarez
In SPAN 4040: Advanced Composition and Stylistics, students explore the use of AI to enhance their writing skills in Spanish. Josefa Samper Suarez’s project focuses on integrating AI into assignments such as drafting professional emails and advertisements. Students analyze and refine AI-generated content to ensure it meets professional standards while learning to adapt their writing for diverse audiences. They also use AI to edit and review their essays and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using this tool in the writing process. By reflecting on AI’s capabilities and limitations, students gain a deeper understanding of how to responsibly incorporate AI into their academic and professional work.
Enhancing Education Through AI
These projects demonstrate how AI can enrich the educational experience by fostering creativity, improving technical skills, and promoting ethical technology use. At UNO, the integration of generative AI into teaching is helping students and instructors alike prepare for a future where AI-driven tools play a central role in learning and professional growth. Stay tuned for more stories about AI innovation at UNO in our upcoming blogs!
About the University of Nebraska at Omaha
Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.