From Cheating Tool to Socratic Coach: Teaching Students to Use AI for Self-Efficacy and Formative Feedback

Paul Patison, Navarro College

Paul Patison, Navarro College


The rise of generative AI has left many mathematics educators playing defense, focused primarily on academic integrity. But what happens when we shift from policing the technology to weaponizing it for student success? This interactive session explores how to transform AI from a high-tech answer-generator into a personalized, conversational math coach. By teaching students how to properly prompt AI for conceptual guidance, error analysis, and step-by-step scaffolding, we can strengthen learning through immediate, relevant feedback. When students learn to ask AI, ""Where did my logic break down in this problem?"" instead of ""What is the answer?"", they move from passive consumers to active mathematical thinkers. Attendees will discover how to foster academic self-efficacy by embedding ""AI Tutor"" frameworks directly into their courses. We will review specific student-facing prompting blueprints, discuss how to set transparent boundaries, and share reusable resources you can post directly to your LMS.