2026 Summer PICUP Virtual Workshop

August 4 - August 6, 2026

Online

AI Agents and Custom Chatbots

DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this workshop is to explore how AI agents and custom chatbots can be designed and deployed to support the integration of computational activities into physics courses, spanning the spectrum from introductory to advanced. Building on last year's exploration of large language models, this interactive event shifts from general-purpose AI toward purpose-built tools—custom chatbots, GPTs, and agentic workflows tailored to your courses, your students, and your pedagogical goals. We'll address the critical questions, opportunities, and pitfalls at the intersection of AI, pedagogy, and computational activities development. Whether you're AI-savvy, AI-curious, AI-skeptical, or anywhere in between, this workshop offers participants multiple entry points to build and wield these tools responsibly and creatively. And even if you suspect your custom chatbot is quietly plotting to take over your gradebook—or worse, your research program—you should take part in this event!

Who Should Attend

• Faculty teaching physics at any level (introductory, including high school, to advanced)
• Educators curious about AI’s role in modern pedagogy
• Educators aiming to keep their physics courses current and resilient in the face of emerging technologies

Register by our Early Bird deadline of Friday, July 31st and the registration rate is $10. After July 31st, the registration rate is $15.

Finally, we will adhere to the AAPT Code of Conduct.