The AI Teaching and Learning Pilot Program supports University of Saskatchewan (USask) educators exploring practical, responsible uses of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching, learning, and assessment.

Each pilot provides structured support to help educators plan, implement, and evaluate an approach in a specific course or program. What participants and students learn through these pilots may help inform future teaching approaches, support needs, and decisions about AI tools at USask.

About the pilot program

Each opportunity focuses on a specific teaching or learning use. Depending on the pilot, educators may test AI-supported simulations, communication practice, feedback, exploration of course content, or other approaches connected to course or program learning goals.

Pilot opportunities, tools, and requirements may change each term. Some pilots may require students to use the tool regularly throughout the term rather than as a one-time activity.

Who can participate

The program supports participation at different levels, from individual courses to broader program and departmental initiatives. Applications may be submitted by:

  • individual instructors with a specific course use case;
  • instructional teams working across a shared course, sections, or program area; and
  • programs, departments, colleges, or schools coordinating pilots across related courses or learning experiences.

Applications may be prioritized based on the clarity of the learning purpose, the feasibility of the proposed plan, and the potential to inform teaching beyond a single course offering.

Current pilot opportunities

USask educators may apply for the following Winter 2027 pilot opportunities.

TrackPoint supports spoken simulations and communication practice. Students can practise interactions such as client or patient conversations, interviews, presentations, negotiations, and workplace conversations.

For this pilot, TrackPoint must be integrated into required course activities and used meaningfully throughout the term.

Gemini Notebook allows students to ask questions, create summaries and develop study resources using instructor-selected course materials. For the pilot, the tool is integrated within Canvas, giving students access within the course.

Applications should explain how students would use Gemini Notebook meaningfully and repeatedly throughout the term.

Support for participating educators

Selected participants receive support from the Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching and Learning (GMCTL) and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Support may include:

  • one-on-one technical support and troubleshooting;
  • planning and implementation;
  • evaluation;
  • communication with students; and
  • responsible use.

Participating instructors and students also receive access to the selected tool for the pilot term.

Instructors will join a community of educators that meets regularly to share experiences, address challenges, and refine teaching approaches throughout the pilot.

Apply for a Winter 2027 pilot

Complete the Winter 2027 application form by November 5, 2026.

Applicants should be prepared to describe:

  • the proposed use of the selected tool;
  • the learning goal or challenge being addressed;
  • how students would engage with the tool throughout the term;
  • connections to course or program learning outcomes; and
  • how the pilot could inform teaching beyond the course.

Proposals do not need to be fully developed at the application stage. Selected applicants will receive support to develop and refine their plans.

Questions

Questions about the program or application process can be directed to ryan.banow@usask.ca.