The Curiosity Code: Teaching Students to Think with AI Instead of Outsourcing Thinking

As generative artificial intelligence tools rapidly enter the classroom, many educators face a familiar concern: students may rely on artificial intelligence for answers rather than developing the curiosity and critical thinking skills that drive meaningful learning. This session introduces The Curiosity Code, a teaching framework developed by Dr. Misha Kouzeh and explored in her forthcoming book. The framework helps students use artificial intelligence as a thinking partner rather than a shortcut. Developed through graduate teaching in digital media and social impact courses, the approach shows how curiosity-driven inquiry can reshape how students interact with artificial intelligence systems. Instead of asking whether artificial intelligence should be allowed in the classroom, the framework focuses on how students ask better questions, explore diverse information environments, and synthesize insights responsibly. The poster presentation shares a classroom model that includes a Curiosity Index for Digital Strategists, structured inquiry prompts, and a scaffolded approach to exploration, synthesis, and reflection. Early classroom applications show improved engagement, deeper research behavior, and stronger analytical reasoning across disciplines.