AI Art Meets Classroom Creativity: A Surfing Turtle Takes Off

Wisconsin Virtual Academy is excited to share a unique and inspiring project from one of our talented teachers, Mr. Pegelow. His English Explorations class recently embarked on a creative journey that combined the power of artificial intelligence with the imagination of their students.
The class decided to create a class mascot that would represent their unique learning experience. To make the process even more engaging, Mr. Pegelow introduced the idea of using an AI image generator. The students were immediately intrigued by the possibility of collaborating with technology to bring their ideas to life.
After brainstorming various concepts, the class settled on a surfing turtle as their mascot. They envisioned a cool, adventurous creature that would embody their spirit of exploration and learning. To make the mascot even more distinctive, the students suggested adding golden sunglasses and placing it in the vast expanse of outer space.
Using an AI image generator, the class was able to experiment with different styles, colors, and poses to refine their vision. The students were amazed at how quickly the AI could generate images based on their descriptions. They had the opportunity to provide feedback, make adjustments, and see their ideas evolve in real time.
The experience of creating the class mascot was not only fun but also provided a valuable opportunity for discussion with another group of students. Mr. Pegelow took the time to explore the pros and cons of generative AI with his homeroom class. They discussed the potential benefits of AI in education, such as enhancing creativity and providing new learning opportunities. At the same time, they also considered the ethical implications and the importance of critical thinking when using such tools.
The students were thrilled with the final result: a surfing turtle with golden sunglasses, soaring through the cosmos. Their mascot became a symbol of their unique class experience and a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity.
This project demonstrates how AI can be used as a tool to enhance learning and inspire innovation. By combining technology with the imagination of students, Mr. Pegelow’s class created a memorable and meaningful experience.
October 4, 2024