Flexi is CK-12’s free AI tutor built to support student learning, and now it also includes Teacher Assistant, a suite of AI-powered tools designed just for educators. This guide outlines how to use Flexi effectively with students, and how to integrate the new teacher tools thoughtfully into your own workflow.
Part 1: Helping Students Use Flexi Responsibly
Flexi serves both AI generated and human expert-developed content. All student-facing AI responses are clearly marked as “AI-GENERATED.” Content on cards marked as “CK-12 LIBRARY” are developed by human subject matter experts.
AI generated responses are powered by large language models (LLMs). These models generate responses by predicting likely next words based on patterns in vast datasets. They can produce impressive explanations, analogies, and examples, but they can also make mistakes. As an educator, you play a vital role in helping students understand how to use these tools effectively and critically.
1. Model clear, purposeful questioning.
Encourage students to include all relevant context in their prompts. Vague inputs often lead to vague outputs.
2. Promote cross-checking.
Flexi commonly includes alternative answers pulled from CK-12’s expert-reviewed FlexBooks. Help students develop and extend good study and research habits by encouraging them to compare responses and look for corroboration.
3. Teach digital literacy.
AI is a brilliant opportunity to foster critical thinking. Prompt students to ask: Does this make sense? Is anything missing? Encourage them to follow up or dig deeper.
4. Use the feedback loop.
Flexi learns from usage. When students flag unclear or inaccurate responses, they help improve the system for everyone.
Flexi is most powerful when it’s paired with your guidance. Think of it as a spark for learning, not a substitute for teaching.
Part 2: Getting the Most from Teacher Assistant
Teacher Assistant is a suite of AI tools built to save you time on prep while supporting differentiated instruction. These include (but are not limited to):
Assessment Tools
• Report Card Writer – Drafts quick summaries of student progress.
• Quiz Creator – Generates quiz questions of various types from any concept.
• Rubric Designer – Creates custom rubrics for grading transparency.
Specialized Learning Tools
• Reading Level Adjuster – Rewrites text to fit a specific reading level.
• Student Support Planner – Suggests accommodations for diverse learning needs.
• Relatable Text Generator – Creates fun, custom content on any topic.
Content created through Teacher Assistant may not be labeled as AI-generated. Be mindful of this when sharing or adapting materials.
Best practices for using Teacher Assistant:
1. Always review and adapt.
Double-check content for accuracy, alignment, and appropriateness before sharing with students.
2. Maintain your voice.
The AI is flexible, but it doesn’t know your classroom. Personalize outputs to reflect your students and teaching goals.
3. Use the tools to differentiate.
The Reading Level Adjuster and Student Support Planner are great for inclusive instruction. Just be sure the recommendations make sense in your specific context.
4. Keep it ethical and transparent.
Don’t rely on AI for sensitive decisions. Use it to brainstorm, inspire and cure the inopportune case of writer's block. Be sure to review and make changes so these choices are your own.
In Summary
Flexi and the Teacher Assistant are here to enhance your teaching, not replace it. With your expertise at the helm, these tools can support more dynamic lessons, more efficient prep, and more thoughtful student engagement.