Affiliated Institution/Organization(s): Moraine Valley Community College
Session Format: Workshop
Session Tracks:
OP – Online Pedagogy & Instructional Strategies
TT – Technology & Tools
IT – Innovation & Trends
Session Description
Generative AI has transformed how educators create content, but the next evolution is Agentic AI-intelligent workflows that connect multiple tools to automate repetitive tasks while keeping educators in control. This hands-on workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of designing and building an Agentic AI workflow that streamlines one of the most time-consuming aspects of online teaching: reviewing and summarizing student discussion posts. Working alongside the presenter, participants will build an automated workflow using ChatGPT, Make, and either Brightspace or Canvas LMS. The workflow will demonstrate how discussion content can be analyzed to generate instructor-ready summaries, identify common themes and misconceptions, highlight unanswered questions, and create follow-up discussion prompts that promote deeper student engagement. Participants will also learn how automation can reduce repetitive tasks while preserving instructor oversight, academic integrity, and pedagogical decision-making. Rather than focusing on individual AI tools, this workshop emphasizes how AI applications can work together to create practical, repeatable teaching workflows that improve efficiency and support student learning. Participants will leave with a working Agentic AI workflow, implementation resources, and strategies they can immediately adapt for their own courses.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the concept of Agentic AI and distinguish AI workflows from standalone generative AI tools.
- Build an automated Agentic AI workflow using ChatGPT, Make, and a learning management system (e.g., Brightspace) to process and analyze online discussion posts.
- Configure an AI workflow to generate discussion summaries, identify key themes and misconceptions, and create instructor-ready follow-up discussion prompts.
- Evaluate opportunities to automate repetitive teaching tasks using Agentic AI workflows to improve efficiency, student engagement, and instructional decision-making.
Session Facilitator(s)
- Jean Kotsiovos
Bio(s)
Dr. Jean Kotsiovos is a seasoned academic and administrative leader with thirty years of experience in higher education. She is deeply passionate about fostering educational excellence and lifelong learning. Throughout her career, Dr. Kotsiovos has shown a solid commitment to adult education, leveraging her expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, and computer science to create dynamic, engaging learning experiences.
Dr. Kotsiovos is a faculty member at Moraine Valley Community College for the past 20 years teaching computer information systems courses. She is also a Professor in the Graduate IT department at Purdue University Global and the Internship Director for IT students. She has held several leadership roles, including department chair, assistant dean, and dean at various educational institutions. Previously, she served as the Executive Director of Curriculum and Innovation for over 15 years, playing a pivotal role in developing online degree programs and courses. Her work has focused on harnessing innovative instructional technologies to enrich the student learning experience.
Dr. Kotsiovos holds a PhD in Business Administration with a specialization in Applied Computer Science, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. With over 35 years of experience in technology, including roles as a software developer and IT consultant, she has developed customized technology solutions to help businesses streamline operations and remain competitive in a technology-driven world.
In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Kotsiovos is the President of A Plus EduTech, an educational research and development company specializing in learning design and innovative technology solutions. She is developing AI-driven technologies that empower educators and learners to enhance teaching and learning outcomes through cutting-edge methodologies.
As an accomplished educator, entrepreneur, and author, Dr. Kotsiovos brings a wealth of practical experience and industry insight to all her endeavors. She is dedicated to advancing education through the integration of technology, shaping the future of teaching and learning in the digital age. Her current research focuses on understanding the impact of artificial intelligence in higher education, helping institutions adapt to emerging technologies and deliver high-quality education in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.