AI Literacy and Critical/Creative Thinking

A Sample Certificate Syllabus

Created with the assistance of ChatGPT

Ray Schroeder, UPCEA Sr. Fellow and UIS Professor Emeritus

Week 1: Introduction to Generative AI

**Objective**: Understand the basics of AI, history, and evolution of generative AI.

Topics:

  - What is AI? Definitions and scope

  - Brief history of AI development

  - Introduction to generative AI: what it is and isn't

  - Overview of AI in society and ethical considerations

Week 2: Foundations of AI Technology 

**Objective**: Gain foundational knowledge of how AI works.

Topics:

  - Basic principles of machine learning and deep learning

  - Data and AI: Understanding datasets and biases

  - Overview of major AI models and their applications

Week 3: AI Tools and Technologies

**Objective**: Familiarize with current AI tools and platforms.

Topics**:

  - Survey of AI tools (language models, image generators, etc.)

  - Hands-on: Exploring AI tools and interfaces

  - Setting up an AI-enhanced workspace

 Week 4: Effective Prompt Creation and Management

**Objective**: Learn to communicate effectively with AI through prompts.

Topics**:

  - Principles of effective prompt writing

  - Case studies: successful and unsuccessful prompts

  - Hands-on: Crafting and refining prompts

Week 5: Critical Thinking with AI

**Objective**: Develop skills to critically evaluate AI outputs.

Topics:

  - Understanding AI limitations and errors

  - Strategies for fact-checking and verification

  - Case studies: Misinterpretations and misuses of AI

Week 6: Creative Thinking with AI

**Objective**: Explore the creative potential of AI in various domains.

Topics:

  - AI in art, writing, and design

  - Ethical considerations in AI-generated content

  - Hands-on: Creating a project using AI tools

Week 7: AI in the Workplace

-**Objective**: Understand how AI is transforming industries and work.

Topics:

  - AI applications in business, healthcare, education, etc.

  - Preparing for an AI-enhanced career

  - Discussion: Future trends and career paths in AI

Week 8: Capstone Project and Reflection

**Objective**: Apply learning to a practical project and reflect on the learning journey.

Topics:

  - Developing a capstone project utilizing AI tools

  - Presenting projects to peers for review and feedback

  - Reflective discussion on AI literacy journey

Assessment and Certification:

- Weekly assignments and quizzes to reinforce learning

- Participation in discussions and hands-on sessions

- Final capstone project demonstrating skills in AI literacy and critical/creative thinking

Upon successful completion, awarding of "AI Literacy and Critical/Creative Thinking Certificate"

**Resources:**

- Access to AI tools and platforms for hands-on learning

- Reading materials, including articles, case studies, and research papers

- Guest lectures or interviews from professionals in the field

This syllabus is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the latest developments in AI. It aims to provide a solid foundation in understanding and utilizing generative AI, coupled with critical and creative thinking skills, to empower students to navigate and leverage AI in their personal and professional lives.