Custom GPT: Build an AI Teaching Assistant for Your Class
- Xuebin Wei
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
This tutorial explains how to create a custom GPT-powered chatbot that acts as a virtual teaching assistant, helping students access course materials such as the syllabus, announcements, and lab instructions—without writing any code.
Artificial intelligence is now a practical tool that can enhance teaching and learning. One powerful application uses OpenAI’s Custom GPT feature to create a personalized assistant for your class. By uploading course documents and providing simple instructions, you can set up a chatbot that answers student questions based on your materials. The best part? Students don’t need a paid subscription to use it.
Why Use a Custom GPT Teaching Assistant?
Students often ask the same questions throughout the semester—about deadlines, lab requirements, or where to find certain materials. Instead of answering those questions repeatedly, instructors can set up a GPT teaching assistant that provides quick, accurate responses drawn directly from class resources.
You only need an OpenAI ChatGPT Plus account ($20/month) to build the assistant. Once it’s created, you can share the link with your students, and they can use it with their free OpenAI accounts.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Visit chat.openai.com/gpts
Start by logging into your OpenAI account and going to the GPTs section. Click on “Create a GPT” to begin the setup process.
2. Name Your Assistant and Upload a Logo
Give your GPT a clear and descriptive name, such as “Social Media Class TA.” You may upload a custom logo or create one using an image-generation tool like DALL-E.
3. Upload Course Documents
Upload your syllabus, course announcements, and lab instructions. These documents will serve as the GPT’s source of information. Avoid uploading copyrighted materials like lecture slides unless you have permission.
4. Write System Instructions
Clearly define how the GPT should interact with students. For example:
Be friendly and student-facing in tone.
Use information only from the uploaded documents.
Specify whether answers come from the syllabus, lab instructions, or announcements.
If a question cannot be answered, suggest that the student contact the instructor.
5. Configure Capabilities and Privacy Settings
Disable any unnecessary features, such as image generation, file uploads, or web browsing. Also, deselect the option to allow OpenAI to use conversations for training purposes—this helps protect student privacy.
Sharing the GPT with Students
Once the GPT is ready, you can choose how it will be accessed:
Private (for your use only)
Anyone with the link (recommended)
Publicly listed in the GPT store
For most courses, the best option is to share the GPT with anyone who has the link. This allows you to post the assistant in your learning management system or course website without requiring students to sign up for a paid subscription.
Student Experience
From a student’s perspective, the process is simple. After logging in with a free OpenAI account, they can access the assistant and ask questions like:
What is the deadline for Lab 2?
How do I submit my final project?
Where can I find the MongoDB connection string?
The GPT responds based on the uploaded documents and can even help with technical setup or university resources if that information is included.
Conclusion
A custom GPT teaching assistant can provide real-time support to students, reduce repetitive questions, and introduce students to responsible uses of AI in education. It’s easy to create, cost-effective, and highly practical.
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