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16 Thinking Routines Students Can Use to Deepen Learning while using AI Tools

In the age of AI, it is necessary to develop crucial critical thinking skills that will help prepare our students for a future beyond our foresight.

AI Literacy is a must.

With the inevitable ubiquity of AI tools in the classroom and workplace, not only must we show our students how to use AI tools effectively and ethically, we must teach them how to go beyond it.

Learning does not end with AI. In fact, it’s only just beginning.To encourage students to think more deeply and independently after asking ChatGPT questions, consider the following thinking routines taken or adapted from Harvard Project Zero’s Thinking Routine Toolbox.

  1. Encourage reflection (e.g., Connect-Extend-Challenge, The Three Why’s, Color-Symbol-Image): After students receive input from ChatGPT, ask them to reflect on the response and how it connects to their current understanding. Encourage them to identify areas where they might need further clarification or investigation.

  2. Promote discussion (e.g., Think-Puzzle-ChatGPT-Explore*, Think-Pair-ChatGPT-Share*): Encourage students to discuss the insights they gain from ChatGPT with their peers. This can foster deeper understanding and help them develop their own perspectives on the topic. (Note: The original version from Project Zero did not use nor contain ChatGPT as part of the thinking routine. These are just adaptations) 

  3. Use the AI response as a starting point (e.g., Does it fit?, Compass Points, What Makes You Say That?): Instruct students to use the AI-generated ideas as a foundation for further inquiry. Encourage them to research, brainstorm, or analyze the topic more thoroughly.

  4. Teach metacognition (e.g., I used to think…Now I think, 3-2-1 Bridge, How Else and Why?, Creating Space for Learning): Guide students in recognizing and monitoring their own thought processes. Especially after using tools like ChatGPT, encourage them to evaluate their understanding and identify areas where they need to focus or improve.

  5. Assign follow-up tasks (e.g., Headlines, +1 Routine, Circles of Action): After students engage with ChatGPT, provide them with prompts, assignments,or activities that require them to apply, analyze, or synthesize the information they’ve gained. This helps reinforce learning and ensures they put the AI-generated insights into practice.