We are often caught by surprise when a friend or colleague demonstrates an AI tool performing a task that we didn’t know was possible. That surprise sparks curiosity, prompting us to search online or even create an AI program account to test what we’ve heard it can do.
The most significant and lengthy phase of AI exploration is frustration. We attempt to use AI frequently during this stage but struggle to achieve the desired results. We refine our prompts but still face challenges getting accurate or helpful responses.
This frustration leads us to platforms like YouTube to watch tutorials on “How to Use AI.” Unfortunately, those tutorials often make AI use seem seamless and don’t reflect the difficulties we experience. However, with persistence, research, and practice in crafting better prompts, we begin to see results.
Once we master using AI effectively, joy sets in. We start enjoying tools like ChatGPT or Gemini as virtual assistants, appreciating their capabilities. Beyond practical use, we even have fun with AI by writing humorous poems or songs about colleagues, friends, and family.
Finally, productivity takes over. This is when AI truly transforms our work. We use it to create budget narratives, interpret charts into plain language for stakeholders, summarize lengthy board meeting videos in seconds, generate complex Excel formulas to analyze data, and much more. AI significantly boosts our efficiency and output.
First, we need to shift our mindset and remind ourselves that using AI is as easy as eating a piece of cake.
Where Do We Start?
First, we must shift our mindset and remind ourselves that using AI is as easy as eating a piece of cake. Start by creating an account on an AI platform and interacting with it. You’ll find that it becomes easier every day. Large language models (LLMs) make it simple to ask natural, human-like questions and even learn from the AI itself.
Here’s a tip to speed up your learning process: Use the following structure when crafting your prompts:
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Act as...
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Context
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Request
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Let it ask questions
Example Prompt:
Act as a school business official and help me with my work as the CFO of Anytown School District. You can find more information about our district at www.anytown.org/aboutus.
I am preparing a budget book and need assistance crafting clear and concise narratives based on the tables and charts I will provide. The narratives should explain the data in a way that is understandable to stakeholders, such as board members and community members, and should align with our district’s goals and priorities.
Please ask me any specific questions you need to ensure the narratives are accurate, informative, and impactful.
The Promise of AI
I disagree with the statement, “AI will soon replace our jobs.” Instead, I believe it’s more accurate to say that candidates who utilize AI efficiently will replace those who do not.
According to McKinsey & Company’s May 2024 article, The State of AI in Early 2024: Gen AI Adoption Spikes and Starts to Generate Value, generative AI use surged from 33% to 65% between 2023 and 2024, demonstrating its rapid adoption across organizations. As educators, we often adopt new technology later than other sectors. This time, we must ensure we don’t fall behind.
Our mission is to serve the next generation to the best of our ability. By incorporating AI into our daily tasks, we can save time on repetitive work and dedicate more attention to higher-priority responsibilities.
Happy learning!