Teach with Tech

In this issue, we’re looking at Google Gemini’s Guided Learning Mode and how to use generative AI for classroom visuals. We’ve also rounded up some recent edtech articles and a handy new Canva feature that transforms images into editable documents.

Gemini has introduced a feature called Guided Learning, similar to ChatGPT’s Study Mode and Anthropic’s Claude for Education. These models represent a shift in AI use with students: they are specifically designed to engage in the learning process rather than simply answering a question or creating a product.

Moving Beyond the "Answer Engine"

The primary challenge with standard AI in the classroom has been its tendency to provide immediate solutions, bypassing the struggle necessary for deep comprehension. Guided Learning addresses this by changing how the AI interacts with the student.

When this mode is toggled on (which can be done within a standard chat or applied to specific Gems) Gemini transforms from an assistant into a tutor. Instead of providing a direct answer, it employs the Socratic method, guiding students through complex topics with step-by-step suggestions and probing questions.

How is Gemini Guided Learning Different from other learning modes?

What sets Guided Learning apart is its foundation in LearnLM. This is a series of models built by a cross-disciplinary team of AI experts, neuroscientists, and cognitive scientists. By incorporating feedback from actual students, Google’s goal was to create an AI tutor that adheres strictly to the best practices of teaching science. Other models rely on prompt engineering to direct their models to yield questions and guide learning. Educators will want to see for themselves if this specialized design in Gemini truly makes a difference in how students engage with the material and with AI.

Key Features of Guided Learning

• Active Retrieval: Gemini asks targeted questions to ensure a student understands a concept before moving forward.

• Encouraged Inquiry: The model is tuned to prompt further thinking, pushing students to explore the "why" behind a concept.

• Multimodal Support: To support different learning styles, the mode shares curated, high-quality recommended videos directly related to the topic of discussion.- I haven't experienced this yet.

• Scaffolded Guidance: Complex problems are broken down into manageable steps, ensuring students remain in the "Zone of Proximal Development" without becoming overwhelmed.

Guided Learning allows educators to transform AI into a catalyst for critical thinking. When we guide students toward the effective and appropriate use of these tools, we ensure technology remains a bridge to knowledge and not a shortcut past the hard work of learning.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of educational technology, generative AI is shifting from a text-only assistant to a powerful visual collaborator. For educators, this means the ability to create custom diagrams, tailored anchor charts, and even short explainer videos in minutes.

However, as the recent AI Tech Talk professional development session highlighted, navigating the world of visual AI requires a balance of knowing which tools are free, how to prompt effectively, and where the current limitations lie.

Navigating the AI Toolbox- What can you use for free?

For daily classroom use, several accessible tools offer robust free tiers for the creation images:

• Microsoft Copilot: integrates DALL-E 3 and has a higher daily limits on image generation.

• Google Gemini: Utilizes the Nano Banana 2 model for image creation. It is particularly effective at creating "cartoon" style visuals and diagrams, though it typically limits users to about 20 images per day.

• Claude (Anthropic): While Claude does not "draw" traditional images, it can write code (like SVG or React) to generate clean, technical diagrams that can be screenshotted or exported as PDFs.

• Recraft.ai: A specialized tool that excels at rendering text within images—perfect for posters and signage where readability is non-negotiable.

• Canva Magic Media: Great for quick graphics and 5-second "GIF-style" videos, though text rendering within the images remains a challenge.

Image created using Google Gemini

The Power of Prompting

The quality of an AI-generated visual is directly tied to the specificity of the "prompt" (the instructions you provide). A vague request like "Make a comic about photosynthesis" might yield generic results. For stronger results use the framework above and include elements like role, task, audience, context, format, and constraints to build a solid and detailed prompt. If you're struggling to write a prompt, ask the AI for help!

Practical Applications for the Classroom

Below is a variety of different ways you could utilize image creation in education- with three specific examples shown.

• Custom Classroom Posters – motivational quotes, procedures, vocabulary walls, safety reminders.
• Graphic Organizers – story maps, Venn diagrams, flowcharts, timelines.
• Differentiated Visual Supports – simplified visuals, step-by-step directions, scaffolded diagrams.
• Anchor Charts – math strategies, reading prompts, science processes.
• Custom Illustrations – characters, scenes, or concept art to match any lesson.
• Science Diagrams & Models – cells, planets, ecosystems, lab setups.
• Math Word Problem Visuals – illustrated scenarios to increase comprehension.
• Historical Scene Re-creations – “historically inspired” images for discussion or analysis.
• World Language Conversation Scenes – cultural images, labeled objects, vocabulary practice.
• SEL & Classroom Culture Graphics – class mascots, mood boards, emotion icons.
• Newsletter & Website Graphics – headers, icons, and visuals for family communication.
• Accessibility Icons & Simplified Visuals – supports for multilingual learners and diverse needs.
• Mini Explainer Videos – short instructional clips for vocabulary, concepts, or unit previews.
• Flipped Classroom Lessons – quick AI-generated videos or narrated tutorials.
• Demonstration & Skill Modeling Videos – math steps, writing processes, lab procedures.

• Personalized Character Portraits
• When reading a novel like To Kill a Mockingbird, students often struggle to visualize characters. By inputting textual descriptions into an image generator, teachers can create multiple versions of a character (like Scout) and have students vote on which one best matches the evidence in the book.

• Custom Diagrams and Worksheets
• Finding the "perfect" diagram is notoriously difficult. AI allows you to generate a labeled diagram for a lecture and then immediately prompt the AI to "remove the labels" to create a matching blank version for a student quiz.

Image created using Google Gemini

• Anchor Charts and Safety Posters
• From "R.A.C.E." writing strategies to lab safety reminders, AI can generate cohesive posters that match your school’s colors or mascot.
• Note: Always double-check the text. Some models still struggle with spelling, often producing "gibberish" text that looks like letters from a distance but doesn't make sense up close.

Image created using Google Gemini

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are great at creating images that look like worksheets or posters, but they do not produce designs you can easily edit. If you want to make changes, you are often stuck revising your prompt over and over to get a slightly different result.

Canva’s new Magic Layers feature changes that.

Magic Layers takes an image and automatically separates it into individual, editable elements. This means you can modify text, adjust colors, move objects, or remove pieces entirely, turning a static AI-generated image into a fully customizable design. This makes images created with tools like ChatGPT or Gemini far more practical and reusable.

How to use Magic Layers
From the Canva home screen select Magic Layers from Canva’s design options, then upload or choose your image. From there edit to your hearts content.

Here are some recent articles to read and ponder.

Marcus Luther, March 5, 2026, published in Edutopia

A high school ELA teacher reflection on how adult choices around the use of AI can affect classroom culture.

February 2, 2026 from American Psychological Association

While this article is geared towards parents and guardians many of these tips can be imbedded into digital citizenship and safety lessons in the classroom.

Collleen McClain, February 24, 2026, Published by Pew Research Center

Just over half of U.S. teens say they have used chatbots for help with schoolwork, and 12% say they’ve gotten emotional support. Check out this article to see how and when teens say they are using AI.

Scott Elliot, February 13, 2026 published by EdWeek

An article about the prevalence of screen among adolescents, the difference between consumer tech and ed tech, and legislation to limit screen time during the school day.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals
🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders
🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI
🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

• April 14: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
• May 12: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Miss a Tech Talk? Check out the YouTube playlist to watch any session.

This is a monthly newsletter from the School Improvement Department of the InterMountain Education Service District. If you would like more information on EdTech tools, resources, or training, please contact:

Ayla Olson

Instructional Coach

Email: ayla.olson@imesd.k12.or.us

Phone: 541-966-4657

Website: sites.google.com/imesdapps.org/instructional-coaching