AI Digital Media - Graphics Generation

AI image generation utilizes algorithms to create visuals based on text descriptions. Type in detailed prompts and the artificial intelligence generates corresponding images of anything you can think of, from historical or whimsical settings to complex images. The technology is user-friendly and designed for just about anybody.  AI generated images can be used as visual aids, for language development, and building critical thinking skills. 

*Educators must be mindful of copyright laws, privacy and security concerns, the potential for AI to perpetuate biases or make mistakes, and the importance of modeling with students how to use these tools responsibly.

WHY Important 

Utilizing AI for graphic generation, educators can create visually compelling and educational content that enhances learning experiences, engages students, and prepares them for a technology-driven future.

WHAT Will Be Learned 

The focus will be on:

  • Tool selection 
  • Creating illustrations 
  • Common errors and biases
  • Pedagogical strategies

Examples of tools that may be useful for this task:


Reflective Practices

References

Guiding Reflection Questions

Suggested Action Steps

Incorporating AI Art Generation in the Classroom, Edutopia, Feb. 2024

Contemplate how the art of AI generated images enhance student learning. 

“Michelangelo said, “A man paints with his brains and not with his hands.” In the age of generative art as a tool, Michelangelo was right.” How might this quote open conversations about original art and creativity with colleagues and students?

Ethical Use 

Painters learn their craft in part by studying and copy techniques by the past masters. AI is fed images by artists to improve its generation of images. Consider the line between studying masters and copyright.

Identify a tool that you have access to that can be used by you to generate images for activities. Test it by generating images and adding instructions like “abstract”, “watercolor”, or other art reference.

5 Ways to Use AI-Generated Images in Your Classroom, TESOL, Jan. 2024Utilize picture-based AI generated images activities in the classroom.

Why Should I Read This?

The shared strategies exemplify how images can be used to challenge use of critical thinking skills.		What are ways that images can promote comprehension of ideas and engage learners into complex concepts like symbolism such as memes?

Ethical Use 

Each AI tool has its challenges with creating images that reflect a variety based on your descriptions. Explore different ways to ask for what you want so that results may vary.		Add AI generated images to your instructional toolbox and try with your students as part of embedded activities.
7 Ways AI Art Generators Enhance Creative Writing in the Classroom Apple Education, Apple Education, Feb. 2024Offers a variety of ways to use AI generated images to support and engage student writers.

Why Should I Read This?

Visuals can be a great approach to aid students with improving writing such as details. AI generated images can be customized to suit your needs.

Consider the instructional value of AI generated images and how they enhance teaching and learning. 

Ethical Use 

When creating images be mindful of its inherent bias, especially when creating people. Use specific instructions to get a variety of perspectives.

Choose one of the strategies from the article and create images to support the writing activity. Try it with students and ask for their feedback afterwards.


1. Vocabulary & Language Development for English Learner Students 

Purpose: These sample prompts help teachers create instructional visuals that support English Learners (ELs) in vocabulary acquisition and comprehension. It provides a visual scaffold that pairs key vocabulary with engaging images, making complex concepts more accessible. 

ChatGPT: Prompt Transcript & Output l Video Walkthrough (2 minutes 3 seconds)

Ideogram: Prompt Transcript & Output l Video Walkthrough (1 minute 48 seconds)

2. Historical Scene for a Lesson 

Purpose: These sample prompts help teachers create visually rich and historically accurate representations of past events, providing students with a contextualized understanding of historical movements, like the Harlem Renaissance.

    ChatGPT: Prompt Transcript l Video Walkthrough (1 minute 43 seconds)

    Adobe Express: Prompt Transcript & Output l Video Walkthrough (2 minutes 58 seconds)

    Canva: Prompt Transcript & Output l Video Walkthrough (2 minutes 19 seconds)

3. Visual Aids & Diagrams

Purpose: This sample prompt enables science teachers to generate biological processes like photosynthesis. It ensures students see each step, making abstract science concepts easier to grasp.

    Canva: Prompt Transcript & Output  l Video Walkthrough (1 minute 54 seconds)

Tips for Using AI Image Generation based on AI’s Current Capabilities 

Current AI Capability

Tips for Using

AI struggles with spelling – Avoid text in images generating gibberish text

Add text manually using design tools and overlay vocabulary words on AI images instead of relying on AI text.

AI struggles with fine details

Check for errors and verify image accuracy before use.

AI struggles with historical & cultural accuracy

Cross-check AI-generated historical scenes with real primary sources for accuracy.

AI art can perpetuate bias 

Ensure AI-generated lesson visuals include diverse representation or specify diversity within your prompt.

AI may use copyrighted & fair use images

Check AI-generated images’ usage rights before sharing publicly.

AI image generators may misinterpret long prompts by incorporating text as unintended elements into the image

Avoid extraneous text in prompts – Use short, concise, and clear descriptions and separate instructional notes from the AI prompt. For example, instead of 'Create a diagram for a high school chemistry class with labeled elements of the periodic table,' use 'Generate a visually engaging periodic table with color-coded element groups.’