Hi Jacob,

Thank you for your thought-provoking suggestions for using AI to enhance social presence in online classrooms and an opportunity to reflect. I can think of several ways to use AI to generate strategies and tools to create connections, however it is my personal belief that at the end of the day, having authentic contact with my learners has been by far the most rewarding way to instill creativity and develop a community of practice. My favorite example of this here at GCU is a Christ Chat discussion I offer to my learners with scripture study and prayer support, in which many learners have found it to be a fortress or refuge for strength and edification when they have faced major life challenges or welcomed blessings to be celebrated. 

Since I am not sure what the word limit is for this discussion, I have developed my reflection in this Google Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YF5r0UMjlsscuUlc35FC9eXsvQQBvyYY/edit

All the Best,

-Dr. Sky 

Kathryn Tomlinson In reading your thoughts Dr. Sky I thought you hit the nail on the head in your use of AI and that was its amplification of your skillset. It could be used to create content, but you still needed to get your "hands on it", so to speak, before putting it in front of students. The perspective and expertise that you bring, in that step, is something AI will never be able to replace. 

Hi Kathryn,

Good point about the need for authentic and intentional interactions in the digital classroom. I cannot emphasize this enough, AI is just a tool, a resource to enhance our teaching strategies. It is one of many tools an effective teacher uses to support student learning and promote social presence in the digital classroom. When used thoughtfully, AI can free up time for instructors to focus on building relationships and engaging more meaningfully with students. While AI helps streamline tasks, human connection is what truly cultivates a sense of community and belonging in the digital classroom.

-Elizabeth

Thanks for the question Jacob! As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in education, there is growing concern about the depersonalization of learning. While AI tools can enhance efficiency and personalization, they cannot replace the human element that makes teaching relational and impactful. Social presence is the differentiator, it ensures that students feel seen, heard, and supported in their learning journey.

As educators, balancing technology with human connection can seem daunting. However, there are practical ways to integrate AI while strengthening social presence in your online classroom. Here are five strategies to consider, some of which were discussed in our February Webinar:

1. Personalize Student Interactions

• Use video feedback or live sessions to ensure students hear your authentic voice.
• Supplement automated responses with personalized check-ins or announcements to maintain warmth and connection.

2. Foster a Collaborative Environment

• Use discussion boards to build student connections.
• Implement shared digital workspaces (Wakelet) that encourage interaction and teamwork.

3. Streamline Administrative Tasks

• Consider AI-driven tools to handle repetitive grading, freeing up time for meaningful engagement with students.
• Use AI to Analyze discussion trends to identify students who need support and provide targeted feedback.

4. Be Intentional with Human Touchpoints

• Schedule weekly updates or video messages that reflect your personality and teaching style.
• Stay visible in discussion forums by responding with empathy and encouragement.

5. Engage in Reflective Practice

• Evaluate your use of AI tools and teaching strategies to ensure alignment with your goals.
• Gather student feedback to refine approaches and enhance engagement.

Thomas Dyer Thank you for offering these applicable strategies from our February workshop. I particularly appreciate the Human Touchpoints strategies, and have noticed how much learners appreciate my advocating for them during personal life challenges and opportunities; sharing their grief with support or celebrating their achievements with kudos. Many learners have offered heartfelt feedback in my evaluations, because I was willing to work with them to get things done during difficult times. I feel like the professionalism they exhibit in reaching out with issues and challenges, and keeping me updated, is a very needed soft skill in today's workplace. And, I do not mind offering flexibility when they provide rationale and regular updates for any late or subpar work they might be concerned about. There are so many little adjustments we can make to help our learners be successful. I am truly thankful for this work. 

Kathryn Tomlinson 

We are glad to hear that you like the Human Touchpoint strategies.  One of the strategies that I am really into right now is streamlining administrative tasks.  I’ve found that AI-driven tools like Magical, can be incredibly helpful for handling repetitive work. This not only frees up more time for meaningful interactions with students but also allows more time for creative projects like recording video lectures, voice notes, or developing other digital content for my classes.

As you mentioned, the ability to communicate challenges professionally and seek solutions is a crucial soft skill in today’s workplace, and the flexibility and grace you give students is wonderful. It is so important that we support students in a thoughtful and supportive way, particularly when they express concerns or are going through a tough time.  

Ultimately, all of this strengthens social presence, help faculty create a more engaged and connected learning environment. When students feel seen, heard, and supported, they are more likely to stay engaged, communicate openly, and persist in their studies. Thank you for sharing your approach and for the work you do in creating meaningful connections with your students!

-Elizabeth