I want to thank David Stein for sharing his insights into teaching and working with AI.
David Stein’s passion for teaching and his innovative approach to technology have made him a trailblazer in integrating generative AI into education. As an educator with a career devoted to guiding diverse learners in harnessing technology, it’s no surprise he was an early adopter of AI tools. Our conversation revolved around how playful, low-stakes activities can spark creativity and engagement in students of all ages.
Stein serves as a key figure in educational partnerships through Duke Community Affairs, working closely with Durham Public Schools and other organizations. Many at Duke know him for leading the signature Duke-Durham School Days program, which inspires middle schoolers to consider college through campus visits. Beyond that, he manages programs that incorporate educational technologies to support learners ranging from elementary students to older adults.
Finding the Right AI Tools for the Job
We began by discussing the AI tools Stein has integrated into his work to enhance both productivity and learning experiences. Through experimentation, he has identified tools that align with his needs:
● Creative Tools: Stein uses AI in platforms like Canva, ChatGPT, and Google Drive to design compelling visuals for presentations and teaching materials.
● Video Creation: Tools like Descript enable him to produce engaging videos and podcasts for training sessions and classroom activities.
● Data Analysis: With ChatGPT, Stein can quickly summarize survey results and analyze data to assess program outcomes and uncover areas for improvement.
● Language Accessibility: To support a diverse student community, he relies on AI for translation and transcription, creating inclusive materials such as video captions and multilingual emails for parents.
Creativity and Connection in the Classroom
Stein incorporates AI to foster creativity and collaboration in the classroom. For example, he uses AI-powered image generation (like Copilot) to engage students in imaginative activities. One memorable exercise involved older adults in memory care describing their favorite pets while he entered their descriptions into an AI tool. Together, they refined the images and shared them with the group, sparking conversation and connection.
For younger students, Stein introduces generative AI through multimedia projects. Recently, students used Suno, an AI music generator, to compose songs. The project culminated in a music video created with AI assistance—a hands-on, creative process that blended technology with artistic expression.
As a warm-up activity, Stein often uses Quick, Draw!—a game where participants sketch a prompt and AI guesses the drawing. This playful approach energizes students and builds a sense of community.
Starting Small with AI
For those new to AI, Stein recommends starting with simple, personal tasks to explore its capabilities. Examples include:
● Generating a recipe based on ingredients in your fridge.
● Writing a humorous story from your prompts.
● Drafting a quick email or letter.
As Stein explains, “There are no permanent mistakes with AI, only false starts.” He encourages users to experiment, revise outputs, and discover the potential benefits for education or productivity. Through exploration, learners and educators alike can build confidence and mastery with AI.
AI Tools at Duke
Microsoft Copilot is available at no cost to all members of the Duke community with a NetID. More information can be found here. Copilot can perform many of the functions mentioned above (image generation, data analysis, answers to prompts, translations). It is also connected to real-time internet information and is a secure alternative to other generative AI tools.
Stein mentions other AI tools to explore that aren’t supported by Duke, so proceed with caution if you want students to use them and guard your personal and student data.
We invite you to explore LILE’s resources about teaching with AI and read other interviews in this series from Minna Ng and Robert Duvall.