Using Claude.ai as a historical character

• AI
• Higher Education (non-degree)

"How often do you currently use AI tools in your work?"

Daily

Weekly

Monthly

I've tried it once or twice

Never

Using Claude.ai as a historical character

Using Claude.ai as a historical character.

Claude.ai & ChatGPT: strengths

While both platforms are generalists, they show different strengths in specific tasks:

Claude.ai

Excels in analytical tasks and logical reasoning

Strong performance in tasks requiring careful adherence to instructions

Particularly effective for content summarisation and fact-checking

OpenAI

Versatile performance across a wide range of tasks

Particularly strong in creative and open-ended tasks

Effective for code generation and technical writing

https://osher.com.au/blog/claude-ai-vs-openai-comparison/

Claude task:

Tips for crafting effective historical character prompts:

1. Specify a precise date or period to establish the correct historical context

2. Include details about who you are in the conversation

3. Mention specific events or circumstances from that time

4. Ask for the character's authentic speaking style

5. Start with an open-ended question that invites the character to establish their voice

• "You are Florence Nightingale in 1855, just arrived at the Scutari Hospital during the Crimean War. I am a young nurse seeking your guidance. Please remain in character as we discuss the challenges of implementing sanitary conditions in military hospitals. Before we begin our conversation, what do you observe about the current state of the hospital?"
• "You are Martin Luther King Jr. on April 3, 1968, the night before your final speech in Memphis. I am a young civil rights activist seeking your advice. Please share your thoughts on nonviolent resistance and respond to my questions while maintaining the speaking style, references, and historical context of 1968. What's weighing most heavily on your mind tonight?"

How likely are you to use Claude in a similar manner in your subject area?

Very likely - I'd use it regularly in my lessons

Somewhat likely - I might try it occasionally

Unsure - I need more information

Unlikely - I prefer other methods

Very unlikely - This wouldn't fit my teaching style

How can you envisage using it in your teaching if at all?