Leveraging AI Bots to Boost Student Engagement in the Classroom

Writing Center Consortium for Graduate-Level PME

Presented by COL Andrew Farina, PhD (U.S. Army), Director, Behavioral Sciences Program, U.S. Military Academy

As artificial intelligence transforms the modern operational environment, instructors must evolve their teaching methods to align with core principles of adult learning theory. While often seen as a threat to academic integrity, AI chatbots present a powerful opportunity to enhance student-centered, problem-based learning. This workshop demonstrates how to harness this potential by designing bespoke AI teaching assistants that align with andragogical principles. Participants explore custom AI agents that act as Socratic partners or simulate complex decision-making, turning a potential disruption into a dynamic educational partner.