Understanding AI Tiers

Most AI platforms offer different models, each designed for different kinds of tasks. While many teachers will use the default option, understanding the choices can help get better results when you need them.

Free tiers typically use smaller, faster models that are excellent for:

• Basic lesson planning
• Simple explanations
• Quick feedback on student work
• Generating discussion questions

tip

Although some allow you to opt out, many free tools train their models on your interactions. Check your settings, be cautious and read the Privacy and Terms.

Limited use or paid tiers usually access larger, more capable models that excel at:

• Complex creative tasks (detailed story writing, nuanced analysis)
• Tasks requiring extensive subject knowledge
• Longer, more sophisticated outputs
• Reducing factual errors

For most teaching tasks, free models work well. Be cautious of the information you are sharing and consider upgrading when you consistently need more sophisticated outputs or are doing complex tasks.