Elevating Student Learning Experiences with AI

published: 2025/04/08
contact: UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)
email: innovate@unomaha.edu

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how students learn, offering personalized and interactive tools to engage with course material in meaningful ways. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), educators are integrating AI into their courses to help students build critical skills and deepen their understanding of complex topics. Below, we highlight three projects focused on enhancing student learning experiences with AI.

UNO CAPS Chatbot for Mental Health Navigation

Project Lead: Emilio Herrera

UNO’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is introducing a navigational chatbot designed to help students find information quickly and easily. This chatbot provides users with accessible answers about mental health services, helping to increase awareness and utilization of campus resources. By keeping a chat log for follow-up purposes, the chatbot ensures students receive timely support and enhances CAPS’ ability to address student needs efficiently.

AI-Enhanced Pedagogy in Doctoral Teaching Preparation

Project Lead: Jooho Lee

Doctoral students in the School of Public Administration are preparing for their future roles as educators through an AI-integrated teaching workshop. This initiative trains participants to use AI tools for course design, lecture preparation, and engaging students. By covering AI ethics, culturally responsive pedagogy, and teaching strategies, the workshop equips future educators to integrate AI responsibly and effectively into their classrooms.

Spanish Conversation Practice with Custom GPTs

Project Leads: Tara Toscano and Claudia Garcia

Tara Toscano’s Spanish 2120 students use custom GPTs to practice conversations. These AI tools simulate real-life interactions, helping students develop their conversational skills in Spanish. After each session, students review transcripts of their conversations, allowing them to reflect on their performance and improve. By offering flexible, less-structured language practice, this project provides an innovative way for students to enhance their fluency and confidence.

AI as a Learning Partner

From navigating mental health services to preparing future educators and advancing language skills, AI is playing a key role in transforming learning experiences at UNO. These projects exemplify how technology can empower students and educators alike.

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.