Episode 06: Teaching Students Prompt Engineering
Picture this:
Two students sit side by side, both asking ChatGPT for help with math.
One types, “Help me with algebra.” The other asks, “Can you explain why we complete the square, give me a simple example, and then create one for me to try?”
Same AI. Same assignment. Completely different results.
This week, host Greg Johnston breaks down why that difference matters — and how teaching prompt engineering can transform the way students think, write, and learn. This isn’t about coding or hacking AI; it’s about clear communication, critical thinking, and cognitive ownership in the AI era.
What You’ll Learn
The CLEAR Framework — A simple, classroom-ready method (Context, Learning goal, Examples, Action, Role) that helps students write effective, learning-driven prompts
Classroom-tested activities that turn prompt writing into engaging critical thinking practice
Subject-specific templates teachers can apply instantly in math, science, English, and history
Practical ways to assess prompt engineering using portfolios, peer reviews, and live demonstrations
How parents can support AI use at home by focusing on how students ask for help, not just what they get back
This Week in AI & Education
OpenAI’s latest study reveals a surprising truth: most students are terrible at prompting. The average prompt is just 11 words long, and fewer than 15% provide context or learning goals.
But here’s the game-changer — students who received just 30 minutes of prompt engineering instruction saw 40% higher comprehension and better long-term retention.
As researcher Dr. Sarah Chen put it: “Teaching students to communicate effectively with AI actually teaches them to think effectively, period.”
Key Takeaways
For Educators:
Treat prompt engineering as a literacy skill, not a tech skill
Use the CLEAR framework to make thinking visible and assessable
Encourage students to iterate, refine, and reflect on AI interactions
For Parents:
Ask your teen how they prompted AI, not just what it gave them
Model thoughtful prompting in daily life
Watch for red flags like repeated vague prompts or frustration with AI “not working”
Episode Highlights
Why poor prompting can actually harm learning outcomes
How to turn AI interactions into genuine metacognitive practice
The CLEAR framework in action — real classroom examples
Ways to measure, assess, and celebrate strong prompt engineering skills
How parents and teachers can work together to raise AI-literate thinkers
Listen now: Learn how teaching students prompt engineering isn’t just about getting better AI answers — it’s about building better thinkers for a future shaped by intelligent technology.