When to Use AI-Generated Media in Teaching & Learning

As noted below, there are several ethical issues regarding using AI-generated media. However, that does not mean you should not ever use these tools. There may be times when AI-generated media can improve, enrich, or aid teaching and learning. The key is to make an informed decision about when it is helpful to use AI and when it is not helpful.

Ways to use AI-generated AUDIO media for Teaching & Learning

Provide multiple ways to learn information (UDL).
Language learning or fact memorization (turn it into a song!).
Simulate real-world scenarios (e.g., patient at the ER).
Connect the class topic to students’ interests.
Investigate AI Ethics.
Critique (analyze the lyrics, rhythm, form, motifs, tempo).

Ways to use AI-generated IMAGES & VIDEO media for Teaching & Learning

AI Literacy (is this AI or not?).
Media literacy/critique.
Data visualizations.
Simulations.
Storytelling.
Historical “what ifs.”
World-building (game design, creative writing).
Prototypes of inventions/innovations.
Piquing student interest.

When NOT to Use AI-Generated Media in Teaching & Learning

Generating an image, audio file, or video with AI is quick and easy. It can be tempting to use AI media for presentation slides, worksheets, curriculum materials, reports, or papers—especially if it seems faster than finding properly licensed content or navigating Creative Commons attribution (e.g., via resources like Openverse).

Why you should pause before using AI-generated media

Copyright & consent: Many tools are trained by scraping copyrighted works without permission or compensation to the original creators.
Environmental impact: Generating media (images, audio, video) typically consumes more resources (e.g., water and energy) than generating text.
Accuracy risks: AI media can “hallucinate”—e.g., invent facts in audio summaries or garbled text in images.
Bias & stereotypes: Outputs can reproduce or amplify harmful biases present in training data.

Tip: If you do use AI media, provide clear attribution, verify accuracy, and consider potential bias and impact on learners.

Use these alternatives when possible

Use open-licensed or public domain media (e.g., Openverse) with proper attribution.
Create your own original media (images, audio, short video) or ask your librarian for help locating licensed content.
When AI-generated media is necessary, include a brief provenance note (e.g., the tool, prompt, and date) and verify for errors or bias.

Bottom line: AI media can be convenient, but it's essential to weigh legal, ethical, environmental, and pedagogical considerations. When in doubt, choose open-licensed or original media and model responsible use for students.

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From "When to, and when NOT to, use AI-Generated Media for Teaching & Learning" slide deck by Torrey Trust, Ph.D. is licensed under CC BY NC 4.0. For more tips and additional information, download the full presentation here.

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