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May 6, 2025
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Discussion
Reframing AI Use with the Recipient Test
The other day, I was reading a great article that really made me pause and reflect. It introduced a simple but powerful idea called the Recipient Test, a way to think more ethically and empathetically about how we use AI in education.
As we start exploring more ways to bring AI tools into our teaching, the Recipient Test offers two guiding questions we should all be asking:
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Would I be comfortable being on the receiving end of this AI-generated content?
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Would I want this for someone I care about—like a student I mentor or a loved one?
These questions aren’t meant to discourage AI use but to help us slow down and think critically about the how and why behind it.
I would love to explore the how and why some more. Think about a specific teaching task you do—writing student feedback, creating discussion prompts, designing learning activities, or even drafting recommendation letters. I want everyone to reflect and share their answers to these two questions:
- How might applying the Recipient Test shape the way you use AI for that task?
- What challenges or insights come up when you view it through this more human-centered lens?
I look forward to reading everyone's responses!
-Elizabeth
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6 Replies
I see AI only as another teaching and communication tool. It doesn't replace my careful and thoughtful writing. That means I still have to read and edit it appropriately for the intended audience.
Deborah Wheeler I love your point about how we need to take the time to read and edit appropriately! It's such an important reminder, especially when using tools like AI. Taking that extra step ensures our own unique voice and intent come through clearly and thoughtfully.
-Elizabeth
I have only used AI to revise my own writing of feedback. I primarily use it to adjust for tone and clarity. I prefer to craft my own writing 90% of the time and use AI as a proofreader, editor, or brainstorming tool.
Casey Pitts -Good point, AI should be seen as a proofreader and editor. It is something to help us refine our ideas, not replace our own unique tone and ideas. It’s a tool that supports clarity and tone, but it’s still up to us to make sure our message is thoughtful and authentic.
-Elizabeth
I have used AI to help revise my comments on assignments. My steps are to write feedback on assignment notes in instructor's comments as I read the assignment. Second, I revise them using my version of the recipient test (until now), then submit to AI for possible rewrites. Lastly, I review AI draft and personalize it before submitting to the student.
Alfred Cramer I think it is great that you personalize the feedback before providing it to the student! Personalization is so vital in the virtual classroom, it really helps us strengthen the human connection.
-Elizabeth