Generative AI with MIT App Inventor
In this hands-on unit, students learn how generative AI works by building their own mobile apps using MIT App Inventor.
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- Generative AI with MIT App Inventor
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Approximate Total Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
In this hands-on unit, students learn how generative AI works by building their own mobile apps using MIT App Inventor. Across two guided lessons, they create a ChatGPT-powered chatbot and a DALL·E-powered image generator, gaining practical experience with AI prompts, data generation, and the underlying principles of large language and image models.
As they build, students explore the benefits, limitations, and ethical considerations of generative AI, including accuracy, bias, and responsible use. The unit blends computer science, digital literacy, and creativity, giving students a foundational understanding of how modern AI tools function—and how they can harness them responsibly.
Lesson Flow
Lesson 1 — Build a ChatGPT ChatBot App
Students design a simple mobile app that sends user questions to ChatGPT and displays AI-generated responses. They learn about generative text models, explore how the UI and code blocks work in App Inventor, and reflect on the strengths and limitations of conversational AI.
Lesson 2 — Build a DALL·E ImageBot App
Students create an app that connects to DALL·E, allowing users to input prompts and generate images. They compare prompts, analyze how the AI interprets visual descriptions, and discuss the social and ethical implications of image-generating AI tools.