Main Panels
AI Engine Panel: Provider, Model, and Key
The AI Engine panel controls what model grades your assignment and how authentication works. Getting this panel right prevents failed runs and low-quality output.
Panel overview
The AI Engine panel has three jobs: choose a provider, choose a model, and verify key access. If any of these are misconfigured, grading can stall before it starts.
Provider selection
Use the provider list to pick the backend. Groq is quick to start and often works with managed quota. OpenRouter gives access to broader model options and is the right choice when you need more control.
- Groq: fast startup and simple setup for many classrooms.
- OpenRouter: wider model catalog and stronger tuning options.
- Switch providers before selecting your final model so the model list matches your provider.
Model selection
Start with a stable model and keep it fixed while calibrating rubric instructions. Changing model and rubric at the same time makes troubleshooting difficult.
Best practice: lock one model for a full assignment run, then compare outcomes after grading is complete.
API key setup
For OpenRouter, paste your OpenRouter API key into the key field and confirm the status changes from not set to active. If your district blocks provider domains, use a personal provider account for key issuance while keeping student privacy safeguards in place.
- Select OpenRouter in the provider list.
- Paste your API key in the AI Engine key input.
- Confirm status indicator updates.
- Run a small calibration batch before full grading.
Preflight checklist
- Provider selected intentionally (not default by accident).
- Model name confirmed in the panel.
- Key status is active.
- Instructions loaded before clicking Initiate.