Immaculata News
Immaculata University Brings Magic School AI to Teacher Preparation Programs
Tags: education
As educators and students debate how artificial intelligence fits into the classroom, Immaculata University is among the first institutions nationwide to integrate the Magic School AI platform into its undergraduate teacher preparation programs.
Magic School is an AI-powered platform designed to support teachers with lesson planning, differentiation, communication and other essential aspects of classroom practice. By weaving this technology into its curriculum, Immaculata aims to prepare future educators to use AI thoughtfully and effectively in real-world settings.
This early exposure gives Immaculata students a distinct advantage as they enter the workforce equipped with hands-on experience using a tool that many practicing educators are only beginning to explore.
Immaculata’s faculty emphasizes responsible use of AI tools like Magic School. Melissa Reed, Ed.D., chair of Immaculata’s Division of Education, stated, “We want our students to understand how to use AI tools to enhance teaching and learning. AI should empower educators, not diminish their creativity or professional judgment.”
But first, students need to learn how to use the tool correctly. Kelly Doyle, Ed.D., associate professor of education, is training students to write and refine prompts that generate useful outputs. In her course on differentiated instruction, students design lesson plans based on assessment data, using Magic School to tailor materials for individual needs.
“Districts are looking for candidates who understand how to use AI for curriculum, assessment, efficient planning and communication,” Doyle said. She noted that more than 60% of educators already use AI tools and many districts are adopting related policies and training.
Laura Eisemann, Ed.D., associate professor of education, also uses Magic School in her courses to help students develop lesson plans and brainstorm classroom activities that reach all learners regardless of their learning style.
The University’s adoption of Magic School was spearheaded by Reed and Kristi Ringen, Ed.D., vice president for academic affairs and provost.
“Immaculata is proud to be an early adopter of AI in teacher preparation, giving our graduates a strategic advantage while preparing them to embrace the ethical use of AI that will define the future of how we teach and learn,” Ringen said. “This is a strategic investment in their success.”
Doyle, who has served on hiring committees for K-12 teachers, said graduates with AI experience will stand out.
“Interviewers want candidates who can speak very concretely about topics…give examples of what it looks like in a classroom,” Doyle stated. “With our use of Magic School, our students will be able to do just that.”