Prompting Learning: The EPICC 2 Framework for Effective Prompt Engineering in Education
William Cain · 2025
Building on prior research (Cain, 2024), this chapter introduces the EPICC Framework (Effective Prompting through Iterative Content and Critical Thinking), a comprehensive model guiding both students and teachers in using Large Language Models (LLMs) through prompt engineering. It emphasizes three key components—content knowledge, critical thinking, and iterative design— as essential to enhancing LLMs’ educational potential. By focusing on how educators and learners can strategically craft, refine, and evaluate prompts, the framework provides a practical approach to leveraging AI (artificial intelligence) for exploration (active inquiry and discovery), creativity, ideation, and productivity. EPICC’s iterative focus equips users to generate more precise, contextually relevant generative AI outputs, fostering personalized learning experiences and deeper engagement with content. Through this structured approach, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills when learning with LLMs, while teachers enhance their instructional strategies for generative AI-enhanced environments. The framework also highlights content knowledge and critical thinking as ways to address ethical considerations like biases and inaccuracies, ensuring responsible use of generative AI in education. As a pedagogical precursor, the EPICC Framework presents prompt engineering not just as a technical skill but as a transformative educational practice empowering both students and educators to fully harness AI for collaborative knowledge creation and innovation.