Large Language Model
As tools like ChatGPT and other LLM-based platforms become more common in classrooms, it's important for educators and students to understand how they work, what they can do, and where their limits lie. This guide explores the fundamentals of large language models, their role in education, and how to use them responsibly and effectively.
What is a Large Language Model?
A Large Language Model (LLM) is a type of artificial intelligence designed to understand, interpret, and generate human language. Built using a deep learning method called transformers, LLMs analyze vast amounts of text data—books, websites, conversations—to learn how language works.
LLMs are trained with billions of words and contain millions or even billions of parameters, which help them predict what words come next in a sentence or understand the meaning behind a question. Some of the most well-known LLMs include ChatGPT, Google’s PaLM, and Meta’s LLaMA.
These models power many of the AI tools you may already use in education—writing assistants, virtual tutors, and AI-powered feedback tools.
How to Explain Large Language Models to Students
Elementary (K–5): “A large language model is like a super-smart robot that reads lots and lots of books so it can help answer your questions or write fun stories.”
Middle School (6–8): “LLMs are computer programs that learn by reading tons of information. They help with writing, answering questions, or even helping you study.”
High School (9–12): “Large language models are a type of AI trained on huge amounts of text. They can understand and generate language much like a human, and are used in tools like ChatGPT or Grammarly to assist with writing, feedback, and studying.”
Key Components of Large Language Models
There are three key components to understanding LLMs: transformers, parameters and scale, and training. Let's go over each of these.
Transformers: The Brains Behind the Model
Transformers are a special kind of neural network that powers LLMs. They allow the model to analyze relationships between words across long sentences, helping it “understand” meaning better than previous methods.
Parameters and Scale
An LLM’s power comes from its size. The more parameters it has, the more complex the language patterns it can learn. These parameters are the “settings” the model adjusts during training to improve accuracy.
Training on Massive Text Datasets
LLMs are trained on internet content, books, articles, and more. This broad training allows them to handle many topics—from science and history to creative writing and everyday conversation.
Why Large Language Models Matter in Education
LLMs are becoming essential tools in K–12 education because they offer:
Instant Support: AI chatbots powered by LLMs can answer student questions on-demand.
Personalized Feedback: Writing tools suggest improvements in grammar, clarity, and structure.
Efficient Planning: Teachers use LLMs to generate lesson plans, quizzes, and differentiated materials in seconds.
Language Support: LLMs help English language learners with translation, clarification, and vocabulary development.
Use Cases of LLMs in the Classroom
AI Tutors and Study Helpers: Students can ask LLMs for help understanding tough concepts, summarizing readings, or reviewing homework. These tutors never sleep and are always ready to help.
Essay Feedback and Revision: Writing platforms use LLMs to give students feedback on their essays. The AI checks for grammar, structure, tone, and clarity—supporting writing instruction in real-time.
Lesson Planning and Content Creation: Teachers can use LLMs to brainstorm activities, write curriculum-aligned questions, or differentiate content based on student needs.
Large Language Model Challenges
While the benefits and impact of LLMs are clear, there are still some considerations teachers must take:
Bias and misinformation: Since LLMs learn from the internet, they can absorb biases or inaccuracies. Educators should help students understand that AI is not always right—and to use it critically.
Data privacy: When students use AI tools, it’s important to protect their information. Choose education-focused tools that follow FERPA and COPPA guidelines.
Access and Equity: Not all students have equal access to devices or internet. Schools need to ensure LLM-powered tools are used in ways that support all learners fairly.
Teaching Tips for Using LLMs
To combat these challenges, here are some tips on how to use LLMs in the classroom:
Teach prompting skills: Show students how to ask clear, detailed questions to get better responses from AI tools.
Combine AI with critical thinking: Use LLMs as a starting point, then guide students to verify facts, revise drafts, or reflect on feedback. Don’t let the AI do all the thinking.
Be aware of limitations: Teach students to question AI answers and use them as part of a broader learning process.
FAQs about LLMs
Can LLMs replace teachers?
No. LLMs are great at supporting learning, but they lack the human connection, empathy, and classroom understanding that teachers bring.
Are LLMs always correct?
No. They generate answers based on patterns in text, which means they can sometimes make mistakes or guess when they’re unsure.
Can I use LLMs to support students with IEPs?
Yes, LLMs can help personalize content and instruction. But they should be used as part of a broader plan that includes teacher expertise and student support services.
How much do LLMs “remember”?
Most LLMs have a token limit—the amount of text they can “remember” at one time. This affects how long a conversation can be or how detailed a prompt the AI can respond to.
LLMs for schools with Flint
Large Language Models offer incredible opportunities to enrich education, providing instant support, personalized feedback, and creative resources for teachers and students alike. However, with their potential also come challenges, such as bias, misinformation, and privacy concerns. Using platforms like Flint can help resolve those challenges.
Flint is a K-12 AI tool that has helped hundreds of thousands of teachers and students with personalized learning. You can try out Flint for free, try out our templates, or book a demo if you want to see Flint in action.
If you’re interested in seeing our resources, you can check out our PD materials, AI policy library, case studies, and tools library to learn more. Finally, if you want to see Flint’s impact, you can see testimonials from fellow teachers.
