Using AI to visualize iconic works of art has completely transformed the way I teach AP Art History. By creating digital images inspired by architectural masterpieces like Angkor Wat, Shwedagon Pagoda, and the Bayon Temple Faces, students can interact with these monumental sites in ways that textbooks alone can't offer. The ability to see and explore these spaces—complete with water elements, sculptures, and pathways—helps deepen their understanding of the cultural and historical significance behind the art. AI not only makes these works more accessible, but it also encourages creativity and critical thinking, allowing students to engage with art history in an interactive, hands-on way.

Ten years ago, I traded my red pen for a rolling pin. Well, almost. The idea of learning to make pasta had been simmering in the back of my mind for years, but like so many of us, I kept pushing it aside. Lesson plans, parent-teacher conferences, and the endless hustle of classroom life always seemed to take precedence. But this year, I decided it was time to dust off that dream—literally. Flour dust, that is.

My first attempt at pasta-making was, let’s just say, a lesson in humility. Thick, rubbery noodles that could’ve doubled as bungee cords. But as any teacher knows, failure is just the first step toward mastery. With a little guidance from YouTube’s pasta maestro, Evan Funke, and a bag of 00 flour (thanks, hubby!), I’m finally starting to get the hang of it.

What began as a personal experiment has sparked a bigger idea: blending my love for Italian culture with my passion for teaching. Imagine students learning the language of pasta—words like sfoglino (pasta maker) and tagliere (cutting board)—while exploring the rich history and traditions behind every dish. It’s a delicious way to connect culture, language, and learning.

So, here’s to embracing the mess, trying something new, and finding joy outside the classroom. Because even teachers need hobbies. Who’s with me?

Can AI Really Help Teachers? My Experience with AI-Generated Classroom Designs

As we dive deeper into the school year, I’ve been exploring the potential of AI-generated classroom designs to transform how I approach lesson planning and creative projects. From interactive science lessons on volcanic eruptions and climate change to collaborative activities like coloring pages, AI has offered some surprising solutions. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experience using AI tools in the classroom—what worked, what didn’t, and how you can use AI to lighten your workload while keeping your lessons engaging and innovative!

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