Leveraging AI Syntax to source learning materials with the Acer Prompting Method

AI is a powerful and versatile tool, particularly in education, where educators face the challenge of sourcing up-to-date and insightful materials daily. However, the responsibility of educating future generations is immense and requires verified, reliable information. Therefore, mastering the effective use of AI is essential.

Thus, through this article, we invite educators to embrace their role as true culture explorers and adopt a new perspective. In the age of AI, our approach to searching must evolve: the key lies not only in knowing what to ask but in understanding how to ask it.

AI Syntax: a new searching perspective 

In the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), our interaction with AI tools is constantly evolving. Traditionally, users relied on search engines, inputting keywords and sifting through results to find the information they needed.

However, with the advent of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT, the approach is shifting – from searching for answers to directly asking AI tools. This shift requires a new method, one that involves crafting questions and sentences in ways that elicit the best responses from an LLM. This method is referred to as “AI syntax”.

Leveraging AI through a new search methodology

So, let us introduce a method that helps identify the key elements searchers should include in their prompts for optimal results. The four pillars are: Actors and Audience, Context, Expand, and Refine. This method offers a structured approach to formulating questions that make the most of AI syntax.

Actors and Audience

The starting point is identifying the actors and the audience. Teachers using GPT tools should always remember that they are the actors, while the audience could be students, colleagues, or any other group they are engaging with.

Understanding the audience’s age and level is crucial, as it influences the complexity and tone of the questions you ask. For example, a question posed to a fifth-grade student will differ from one directed at a college student or a professional colleague.

Context

The second step is to define the context. This involves identifying the subject or topic of interest and specifying the exact information the searcher is seeking.

Additionally, it’s important to reference any relevant resources and clarify any exclusions or inclusions. For example, if the lesson is on the Industrial Revolution, the teacher might want to exclude certain developments or focus on specific technologies.

Expand

The third step is to expand on the information already gathered. This involves providing background details and clarifying the purpose of the request.

Searchers should also specify how they want the response to be presented. For example, they may request a detailed explanation, a summary, or a list of bullet points. Furthermore, it’s important to identify any additional resources or support needed, such as visual aids, links to further reading, or examples.

Refine and Iterate

The final step is to refine and iterate. Once the AI tool provides a response, searchers must evaluate its usefulness and accuracy. If it doesn’t meet their needs, they should refine their question and try again.

This process of refinement and iteration is essential to getting the most out of AI tools. It also marks a departure from traditional search methods, where users might accept the first page of results as the best answer.

Perfecting AI Syntax in education: practical examples 

Let’s have a look at the difference in using an LLM tool to search for answers, and how the prompt will look like following our method to structure the question more constructively.

The old search method

A typical search query might look like: “Information for Grade 5 learners on the Industrial Revolution.” Simple and to the point, but this search will yield 2.5 million results, requiring further research and content development.

Starting with this traditional search method, we invite educators to participate in an experiment. Copy the search into your browser and take note of the results. Then, try using the same query in AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, or Gemini.

The AI-generated response will likely be more concise and easier to follow than sifting through millions of results, though it may still need additional refinement to build a comprehensive lesson.

The AI Syntax method

Now, let’s give our method a try. We’ll start by identifying the actors and audience, then providing context, expanding on the preferred lesson layout, and finally refining the request as the information loads.

Following our method, the prompt might look something like this: “I am a Grade 5 teacher preparing four lessons for my history class on the topic of the Industrial Revolution. I need to break down the lessons into various sections that cover all four topics. I will be creating a PowerPoint presentation for the lessons, and I need the sections to include dates, important developments, and technologies. Additionally, I would like links to videos that will help the learners understand the topics better. Please include all relevant details. There is no limit to the information you provide; I will summarize as I progress with my research.”

Can you spot our key points in this prompt?

• Actors and Audience: “I am a Grade 5 teacher preparing four lessons for my history class.”
• Context: “The topic of the Industrial Revolution. I need to break down the lessons into various sections that cover all four topics.”
• Expand: “I will be creating a PowerPoint presentation for the lessons. I need the sections to include dates, important developments, and technologies. Additionally, I would like links to videos that will help the learners understand the topics better.”
• Refine: “Please include all relevant details. There is no limit to the information you provide; I will summarize as I progress with my research.”

Now, give it a go and see what a difference it makes!

After the first result, searchers should continue to refine, iterate, and ask the tool to expand on each lesson separately. 

So, educators, request more information on specific sections or items that stand out to you. Then, ask the AI to build a 20-question multiple-choice assessment, and don’t forget to request the answers too. The key is to keep asking the right questions!

In conclusion, the Acer method offers a structured approach to formulating questions that maximize the effectiveness of AI syntax. By identifying the actors and audience, defining the context, expanding on the information, and refining the question, you can interact more effectively with AI tools and receive more accurate and helpful responses. So, the next time you use a GPT tool, remember to shift from search to ask.

Finally, before you go, don’t forget to check out our offer on AI-integrated devices designed with teachers and learners in mind!

This article was written by Glenn Du Toit  – Country Manager – Director Acer Africa