By Lisa Batchelder
As we explore the vast potential of Generative AI, I’ve encountered some surprising and unexpected uses along the way. I have two children ages 7 and 9. They have a passion for learning, and I am constantly peppered with questions; What potions can I make? What is the oldest volcano on Earth? Can I pet a shark? It truly is endless.
With the endless number of questions from my children, I have sometimes had to tell them, “I can’t think of how to explain this concept now. Let me think about it and I will get back to you.” On one of these occasions, I had the idea to utilize ChatGPT. My husband and I were driving with our children and Jack had said something to Luke that was not very kind and so I told Jack to “not be so judgy.” Luke asked what “judgy” meant, and my mind went blank. I could not figure out the best way to explain the word at his level.
Earlier in the day, I had been using the interactive voice aspect of the ChatGPT application on my phone and remembering that gave me the idea to try using ChatGPT to help with my parenting. I got out my phone, opened the application, and prompted, “Explain the word judgy to a 7-year-old.” Not only was the response quick, but it was also at the level of communication that both of my children could understand. It even gave an example that I could use, which was “It’s like looking at someone’s drawing and saying you don’t like it before you really look at all the colors and shapes they used.” Both of my children quickly understood what “judgy” meant and the explanation was swift and simple.
By utilizing Generative AI, I was able to communicate with my children much more quickly and appropriately than using what I was thinking at that particular moment. Generative AI was my thought partner and was able to assist me in tailoring my response to meet the needs of my audience. Not only has Generative AI been a communication assistant with my children, but also in my professional work.
Not too long ago, I came across a tool called Goblin Tools. Like ChatGPT, I have been able to use this tool to help with communication. While Goblin Tools can provide a variety of support, such as breaking down tasks to more manageable steps, providing a crash course for a topic, estimating the time it will take to complete a task, or helping me figure out what to make for dinner based on what is in my pantry, it can help to not only judge the tone of a message, but also formalize a response to best meet the needs of my audience.
The Formalizer aspect of Goblin Tools can adjust your message in various ways, making it:
- More professional, technical, or formal
- More accessible, polite, or easier to read
- Less snarky, emotional, or sarcastic
- More to the point (unwaffle) or sociable (waffle)
- Bullet points or even a single word (thesaurus mode)
In my role as an Instructional Designer, where precision in communication is key, AI tools like Goblin Tools have become indispensable. Whether I need to adjust the tone for a formal presentation or remove unintended emotion from a sensitive email, these tools ensure that my messages are received as intended.
As I continue to navigate the world of AI, I’m constantly reminded of how much it has to offer, both in my personal life and professional work. Whether it’s helping me explain tricky concepts to my children or making my workday a little smoother, AI has become a trusted sidekick. And while I still value those moments of human connection and creativity, it’s nice to know that I’ve got a tool like this in my back pocket. Who knows what the next question from my children will be, or what challenge will pop up at work? But one thing’s for sure—AI will be there to lend a hand. So, here’s to embracing technology as a thought partner. How might AI lend you a hand as you navigate the twists and turns of your own work and life?
Lisa Batchelder is an Instructional Designer with MSU IT, Instructional Technology and Development.