Abstract
This paper explores the redesign of the Introduction to U.S. Politics and Government course at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and its asynchronous delivery wing, NOVA Online. The primary goal was to create an inclusive, engaging, and accessible learning environment by integrating active learning strategies, open educational resources (OER), and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools to enhance critical thinking and engagement. At first glance, there may appear to be a disconnect between adopting an AI-driven discussion tool like Packback in a course that centers on a textbook critical of entrenched power structures. However, this intersection highlights the fundamental mission of community colleges: meeting students where they are while also challenging them to think critically in spaces they may not expect. AI-assisted tools, when used thoughtfully, do not replace human engagement but rather scaffold the learning process, helping students refine their analytical skills and deepen their understanding of political systems.