By now, you've probably heard about ChatGPT and may have even experimented with it for your online courses.
But beyond generating an instant course outline in five seconds, how can we actually use it to enhance our courses while ensuring that our work remains original and uniquely tailored to our students?
In this blog post, we will explore how ChatGPT can assist in online course creation without replacing your expertise.
Want to watch as we go through these steps together rather than reading? Watch the video above.
Want to watch as we go through these steps together rather than reading? Watch the video above.
ChatGPT as a Tool, Not a Replacement
One of the biggest concerns with AI-generated content is whether it truly reflects your knowledge and expertise.
While ChatGPT can provide a structured starting point, it’s crucial to adapt and refine that content to fit your audience.
For example, imagine you are creating a course on how to make tiramisu.
If ChatGPT provides a generic outline, you should analyse whether it aligns with your audience’s needs.
In Chile, where mascarpone cheese is expensive, many people substitute it with cream cheese.
A valuable course might include a lesson on making mascarpone from scratch, something a generic AI-generated outline would not consider.
Instead of blindly using what ChatGPT generates, prompt ChatGPT and use it as a brainstorming tool.
Ask questions like:
- Does this outline meet my students’ needs?
- What additional content can I add to make it unique?
- What common challenges do my learners face, and how can I address them?
Refining Learning Outcomes and Course Content
ChatGPT can also help you clarify learning outcomes.
Instead of manually writing them from scratch, you can prompt ChatGPT to suggest better-defined learning objectives for each module.
Then, evaluate whether they truly align with the skills and abilities you want your students to develop.
For instance, if you are teaching how to assemble a tiramisu, you could ask ChatG¨PT:
"Can you write a better learning outcome for assembling a tiramisu?"
ChatGPT might suggest:
"Assemble a visually appealing and delicious tiramisu dessert by layering components correctly and balancing flavors."
This process ensures that your course structure remains engaging and outcome-driven, rather than just a collection of information.
Choosing the Right Content Formats
Another way ChatGPT can enhance your online course is by helping you determine which content formats will best support learning.
Instead of relying solely on text-based explanations, you can ask:
"What content types should I use to teach someone how to layer the tiramisu cream mixture?"
ChatGPT might suggest:
- Written step-by-step instructions (for easy reference)
- Video demonstrations (for visual learners)
- Infographic diagrams (to break down complex processes)
- Interactive simulations (to reinforce learning through practice)
These insights allow you to create a richer, more engaging learning experience tailored to different learning styles.
Market Research with ChatGPT
Understanding your audience is key to creating a successful course.
ChatGPT can assist in conducting basic market research by identifying common mistakes and struggles your students face.
For instance, you can ask:
"What mistakes do people in Chile make when making tiramisu?"
ChatGPT might highlight:
- Over-soaking ladyfingers
- Using the wrong mascarpone-to-cream ratio
- Skipping the resting time, affecting texture and flavor
These insights can help you refine your course content based on real learner needs rather than assumptions.
Beyond Course Content: Using ChatGPT for Marketing
Beyond course creation, ChatGPT can also help with:
- Writing compelling course descriptions
- Creating engaging email campaigns
- Generating sales copy that speaks directly to your target audience
For example, if you have an online course titled “Design Your Online Course”, you might ask ChatGPT:
"Can you suggest a more compelling course name?"
By analysing different naming options, you can craft a title that better resonates with your audience.
Final Thoughts: AI as Your Assistant, Not Your Replacement
The key takeaway?
Use ChatGPT as a creative assistant, not as a substitute for your expertise.
- Start with an AI-generated outline, but customize it to reflect your knowledge and experience.
- Use ChatGPT to refine learning outcomes and ensure clarity in your course structure.
- Experiment with different content formats to enhance engagement.
- Conduct market research to better understand your audience.
By leveraging AI effectively, you can speed up your workflow without losing your unique teaching voice.
Want a structured approach to course design?
Download my free course curriculum template below to start mapping out your learning outcomes, content types, and more!
What has been your experience using ChatGPT for course creation? Let me know in the comments below!
