5.5: Starting Points
- Page ID
- 69830
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For rural institutions starting to explore AI, a few entry points have low barriers and clear payoff.
- Student support chatbots. Work with vendors experienced with community colleges and FERPA compliance. Start with financial aid and registration, high-volume FAQ areas where AI handles routine questions well.
- Writing feedback tools. Explore low-cost or nonprofit options, or tools integrated with your LMS. Frame AI feedback as one source among several.
- Content differentiation. Use Diffit or similar to generate leveled reading. Start with one course, track results, expand if it works.
- Accessibility supports. Make sure students know about the AI features already built into existing tools: dictation, screen readers, immersive readers. Often the technology is already there.
- CTE simulations. For healthcare programs, explore web-based simulation platforms that supplement limited clinical placements. Start with communication skills before complex clinical scenarios.
- Faculty communities of practice. Provide incentives and a framework for faculty to meet regularly and discuss best practices and new tools. Consider offering webinars or rotating facilitation.


