3rd Day of Teacher Training in Greece

 

The third day of training was structured to provide educators with practical skills and insights into creating inclusive assessments and micro-lessons using AI-powered tools. The session was organized into three key parts: a seminar, a hands-on workshop, and discussion, conclusion, and evaluation activities.

 

Seminar Session: Using Canva AI & Gamma AI to enhance assessment and communication in STEM

The day began with a comprehensive seminar introducing the pedagogical framework of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the role of AI in reducing cognitive load and increasing accessibility in STEM education. The presenter explained how AI tools like Canva and Gamma can streamline assessment creation, support diverse learners, and foster engagement.

Key topics included:

• How AI simplifies complex data and automates routine tasks.
• The importance of accessible content, including visual supports, auto-captions, and translations.
• The benefits of micro-lessons and interactive content in supporting self-paced and inclusive learning environments.
• Examples illustrating AI-enhanced assessment design, such as dynamic question generation, visual explanations, and embedding simulations.

This theoretical overview set the stage for the subsequent practical activities, emphasizing the importance of designing assessments that are accessible, engaging, and tailored to individual learner needs.

 

Hands-On Workshop: Create a complete assessment with Canva/Gamma

Following the seminar, participants engaged in intensive, practical workshop organized into three main activities:

1. Assessment Design with Canva AI  
Teachers defined their assessment topics, learning objectives, and evaluation type (formative, summative, or diagnostic). Using Canva's AI tools, they generated questions - including multiple-choice, short-answer, and open-ended formats - and designed clear, supportive rubrics. They also explored adding visuals, diagrams, and real-world contexts to make assessments more accessible.

2. Visual and Accessibility Enhancements  
Participants used Canva’s Magic Media and Magic Design to incorporate visual elements such as diagrams or illustrations. They checked and applied accessibility features like sufficient color contrast, alt text, and text-to-speech options, ensuring their assessments supported students with disabilities or language barriers.

3. Micro-Lesson Development with Gamma AI  
Teachers used Gamma AI to craft micro-lessons that introduce or reinforce assessment topics. These self-paced, interactive lessons included embedded videos, simulations, reflection questions, and structured content sections. The process aimed to support students’ understanding and retention while accommodating diverse learning styles.

Throughout these activities, teachers reflected on how each feature supported inclusion and saved time, with a focus on practical classroom application.

 

Discussion, Conclusions, and Evaluation: Sharing Insights and Planning Next Steps

The final part of the day involved group discussions and individual reflections to consolidate learning and plan future implementation:

- Group Discussions  
Teachers shared which AI tools and features saved them the most time and which ones offered the greatest support for learners with special needs. They discussed potential modifications to their assessment and lesson designs to better meet their students’ needs and shared best practices for inclusive AI integration.

- Reflections and Feedback  
Participants individually reflected on the ideas they intended to implement immediately, the anticipated impact on their students, and any concerns or questions. They evaluated the training’s contribution to their digital competence, understanding of inclusive practices, and confidence in using AI tools.

- Closing and Future Directions  
The session concluded with a focus on ongoing application, encouraging teachers to experiment with these AI tools in their classrooms, adapt assessment strategies, and continue collaborating with peers to foster inclusive STEM education.

This structured approach ensured that educators not only gained theoretical knowledge but also developed practical skills and reflective insights to make their teaching more inclusive and effective through AI.