AI agents are more than just chatbots powered by large language models (LLMs). AI agents can be custom-built to support teaching and learning in specific ways. This hands-on workshop introduces educators to the principles and practices of designing AI agents that meaningfully support teaching and learning. Through guided activities, participants will draft their own AI agents and explore tools to build and train their agents.
In this workshop participants will explore:
- The fundamentals of AI agents and how they differ from general AI tools.
- Discuss opportunities and challenges of using AI agents in education.
- Key design considerations, including transparency, bias, ethics, and learner agency.
- Practical methods for creating, training and validating AI agents.
Whether you are curious about integrating AI into your teaching or designing institution-wide strategies, this workshop will equip you with the language, tools, and confidence to thoughtfully shape the role of AI in education.
In this his workshop Columbia University instructors will explore CU CHAT provided by CUIT. Please note that this tool is being piloted by CUIT. For teaching and learning purposes, there will be no charge for CHAT for Fall '25 and Spring '26, but in the future, departments and schools may be charged for CHAT usage. For questions about CHAT, please contact CUIT at [email protected].