Hidden Gems

Hidden Gems: Creating custom Google Gems for faculty

In the context of AI, “Gems” are custom versions of the Gemini AI assistant designed to handle specific tasks. By pre-loading these tools with your specific instructions, rubrics, or preferences, you create a "gem" that performs a specialized function reliably, saving you time and ensuring consistency across your teaching and administrative work.

Join us on February 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET for an engaging, faculty-focused event designed to spark ideas and collaboration around AI in education.

This dynamic session will feature 12-minute breakout rooms, where you can explore four practical “gems.”

We’ll start with an introduction to custom GPTs and their applications, then dive into hands-on demos and practice opportunities. The event concludes with guidance on creating your own gems and reinforcing the CORE framework for effective AI integration.

Open to all faculty, this event promises actionable strategies, interactive learning, and fresh insights to enhance your teaching.

Register with Learning Technologies

Hidden gems topics:

Draft a Discussion Prompt That Sparks Critical Thinking

Get help turning a topic into 1–2 focused discussion questions that push students beyond summary. This gem helps you target higher-order thinking (analyze, evaluate, create) in formats that work well in Canvas or in-person. 

Thesis Feedback Machine

The thesis feedback machines gives feedback and guidance for making a stellar thesis statement using Rosenwasser and Stephen’s Writing Analytically. This gem helps students draft, revise, and assess their thesis. 

Audit My Assignment for AI Risk

Paste an assignment prompt and get a quick read on where generative AI might undermine authentic learning. This gem suggests small, targeted tweaks to preserve originality, critical thinking, and alignment with your outcomes. 

Student Letter of Recommendation Assistant

Quickly draft a polished, customizable letter of recommendation based on your relationship with the student and the opportunity they’re pursuing. This gem helps you organize strengths, examples, and professional tone so you can revise and finalize in your own voice.