think it through

AI in education

GitHub Copilot is free for verified teachers and students. Here's how to get started, what the research says, and how to set clear rules for your class.

before you start

Setting classroom rules for AI

AI tools can solve many introductory assignments on their own. That's a reason to plan your approach, not to avoid the tools. These four decisions cover most classrooms.

Decide per assignment, and write it down

Mark each task as "no AI", "AI for help and explanations" or "AI welcome". Put it in the assignment instructions so there is no guessing.

Assess the process, not only the result

Commit history, short reflections and a quick verbal walk-through show whether a student understands their work, whichever tools they used.

Ask students to explain AI suggestions

When AI is allowed, have students note what it suggested and why they kept or changed it. Reviewing AI output critically is itself a skill worth teaching.

Check your school's data rules first

Before students sign up, confirm your school's policy on students using online accounts and AI services, especially for younger students.

Learn GitHub Copilot

Get access, then learn what it can do through short, practical material.

Research and responsible use

Background reading for thinking about AI in teaching.