Mercy Debuts at the Central States Conference

Mercy HS was proudly represented at the Central States Conference, March 12-14,  in Chicago by Madame Joyce Smetanka Campbell, who led a dynamic session and discussion on the integration of artificial intelligence in the French classroom.

Her presentation, “AI as a Collaborative Partner in Project-Based Learning,” explored how AI tools such as ChatGPT can serve as a collaborator in the research, the design and scaffolding of project-based learning experiences in French. Projects discussed included both grammar-based units and cultural-themed projects, highlighting how AI can support teachers in creating engaging, structured, and meaningful learning opportunities.

A central emphasis of the session was the idea of AI as a collaborative partner in the creative teaching process. Rather than replacing the teacher, AI was presented as a tool that works alongside educators to help design instructional tasks, scaffold student learning, generate authentic scenarios, build vocabulary support, and develop assessments. Tools such as Mizou and ChatGPT were also explored as ways to support oral proficiency practice, particularly through guided interactions and role-play activities. 

Madame Campbell highlighted two signature cultural projects from her classroom: an exploration of the history of French fashion and a study of French Impressionism, both enhanced through the use of AI. These examples demonstrated how AI can enrich cultural learning while fostering creativity, whether as part of a classroom unit or a broader initiative such as National French Week.

The session concluded with a collaborative discussion, where educators shared their own experiences, ideas, and questions regarding the use of AI in lesson design and classroom practice. This exchange created a rich professional dialogue and reinforced the role of AI as a supportive collaborator in world language education.

Through her leadership and innovation, Madame Campbell continues to position Mercy High School at the forefront of creative, student-centered, and forward-thinking French instruction.