For my completion pathway of my Masters in Learning and Technology degree, I have chosen to work with the Richmond School District (SD38) for my Applied Research Project (ARP). I will examine how Generative AI (GenAI) can be utilized to support a range of learners, with a focus on those with exceptionalities, such as Learning Disabilities (LD), and individuals who struggle with written output. SD38 has firm guidelines to ensure that all digital tools used comply with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA); there are limited tools that can be used within the district. This will help me focus on the tools used within SD38, build an understanding of how they can be utilized with students, and identify any additional functionality they offer to support students.
Since my research involves GenAI, it will evolve and may take a completely different direction than it currently is, which will impact the final ARP. Since GenAI in education is a meaningful topic of discussion, my primary dissemination goal is to create a professional development opportunity to share my research, offer practical tips and support, and provide other teachers with positive ways to utilize these tools in support of student learning. This would also be supplemented by a website featuring tips and tricks, links to the tools used, and a forum for teachers to discuss where to go next. Together, these two dissemination paths will provide teachers with some desperately needed tools, resources, and professional development around the use of GenAI, which is severely lacking. By providing these resources, I hope to help teachers feel confident and comfortable in using these tools in their planning and teaching.
Resources
Accelerating Research on Generative Artificial Intelligence: IES Announces Four New Research & Development Centers | IES. (2024). Ed.gov. https://ies.ed.gov/learn/blog/accelerating-research-generative-artificial-intelligence-ies-announces-four-new-research-development
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. (n.d.). www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca. https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96165_00
31 October 2025 at 2:11 pm
Excellent ideas Lauren – I really like the focus on professional development first and foremost. I like the idea of a website as well. As you develop the tools you might want to look at a creative commons license for them which allows you to determine the ability of others to continue to develop the tools (or not) and to ensure attribution/credit back to you.