Core Skill 8: Understand basic concepts of artificial intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field that touches nearly every aspect of our lives. It has evolved from predictive tools like Amazon and Netflix recommendations, into Generative AI (GenAI). While traditional AI is designed for narrow tasks with a single correct answer, GenAI creates entirely new, open-ended content like text, images and code. Instead of just analyzing data, it creates new content, acting more like a creative collaborator than a simple calculator. Awareness and exploration of University and Extension resources  for employees is important so you can responsibly leverage, and innovate with, AI in your Extension work.

Basic AI skills

• Have a basic understanding of Generative AI and its limitations

• Are familiar with University supported AI tools and Extension's generative AI principles

• Understand appropriate use and University guidelines, as well as separate usage guides for generative AI use in teaching, research, and communications as they apply to your Extension work

• Understand the basics of writing prompts and engaging with Google Gemini to generate helpful content, ideas or summaries

• Evaluate generative AI output by double-checking facts, sources, and accuracy before sharing or relying on results.