Unlocking the Future: UTSA’s New Generative AI Course
Are you curious about how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI), but you aren’t sure where to start? We’re here to help! Whether you’re interested in using ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or another Generative AI (GenAI) course, UTSA’s new AI Essentials: Guidelines and Approaches Course can help you get started.
The world today is driven by data, making data science and AI more important than ever. These technologies continue to revolutionize industries and create new career opportunities. No matter your field of study, developing these skills can give you a competitive edge.
The use of AI in technology fields – like cyber security or data science – may seem apparent, but AI programs are helpful in other areas, too. AI can be used to analyze data in any field. It can also be used to create a fitness plan, or help generate ideas for your next birthday party.
As you can see, AI literacy can be useful for you, even if you don’t work in technology. In fact, new Adobe research shows that 53% of Americans have tried using AI. While AI is a helpful tool, it’s important that you’re careful and smart in how you utilize it.
Below, we’ll discuss the importance of AI in data science. Then we’ll introduce you to Paul Gonzalez, a senior studying Medical Humanities and the creator of the AI Essentials Course at UTSA. We’ll also share a course overview, benefits of Generative AI in education and beyond, and how you can enroll in UTSA’s free AI Essentials course.
The Importance of AI in Data Science
Data science plays a crucial role in how we understand and use large amounts of data. It’s essential for businesses today because it uses algorithms and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data.
AI in data science careers is transforming industries. It not only enhances content creation, it takes data analysis and interpretation to new levels. You can now process millions of data points in seconds. This means you can uncover insights that previously would have taken weeks or even months to generate. Talk about AI helping businesses!
Through using AI, you can automate repetitive tasks and reduce human error. You can also provide deeper insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational efficiencies. By leveraging AI, you can help companies optimize their processes, enhance productivity, and drive innovation. This may even lead to better outcomes and a stronger competitive edge.
At UTSA Online, we’re constantly evaluating the landscape and updating our curriculum to meet your needs. In fact, our faculty and program designers are currently working in a Generative AI course that will be included as part of the 100% Online Data Science Certificate. Follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for the latest updates on all of our programs.
As a university, UTSA is on a mission to shape the future of AI, cyber, computing, and data science. In fact, the institution is in the process of launching the College of AI, Cyber and Computing.
“[The AI Essentials] course directly supports UTSA’s mission to be at the forefront of AI and technology by preparing students to engage with these tools critically and responsibly. It also reinforces UTSA’s commitment to innovation by ensuring students understand not just how to use AI, but how to use it ethically and effectively in real-world applications.”
Meet the AI Essentials Course Creator
Paul Gonzalez knows some people are wary of AI, but he sees it differently. He compares it to the late 1990s when the Internet was starting to become more common in households. The Internet, he says, “made us more efficient and changed the world for the better.”
That’s why he created AI guidelines for students in the form of the AI Essentials course: “I believe AI is doing the same [as the Internet], and that’s why I’ve worked closely with Academic Innovation to help bring this vision to life.”
Paul’s goal with this course is to break down complex AI concepts so they are easier to understand. He wants to show how students can use AI in higher education and in life. The course provides hands-on experiences and self-guided learning tools to help you explore AI at your own pace.
But Paul’s mission goes beyond just teaching you how to use AI. He wants you to understand “how it can drive innovation and efficiency, but also the ethical challenges that come with it.”
AI Essentials Course Overview
UTSA’s Academic Innovation department has a dynamic toolkit to help students like you learn responsible AI practices. The AI Essentials course is a learning module built specifically for UTSA students like you. It can help you learn how to use GenAI for academic and career success.
The course has seven different sections.
Guidelines and Approaches for UTSA Students
In this section, you’ll read about the purpose of the course and an overview of what you’ll learn. You’ll also hear from Dr. Melissa Vito, Vice Provost for Academic Innovation at UTSA.
REMEMBER
While this course is aimed at teaching you how to use GenAI, it has another central theme: Every class and every teacher is different. Always remember to check your class syllabus for any rules regarding GenAI usage. Ask your instructor if you have any questions.
AI Essentials
Lesson 2 is a deep dive into what GenAI is. It introduces you to the idea of “prompts” and specific GenAI programs, like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. It also shares tools that are available to you as a UTSA student, like Copilot and Adobe Firefly.
Here, you’ll also see specific examples of how GenAI can help you. You can use it for tutoring, data analysis, and more. Learn more about GenAI uses by taking the course.
Guidelines for Academic Use
In Lesson 3, you’ll get a reminder that all faculty have different approaches to allowing GenAI tools for coursework. This lesson also provides you with seven steps for a successful start with GenAI.
The steps include checking your syllabus to see if you’re allowed to use it, protecting your privacy, and more. Maintaining academic integrity alongside AI is key.
It also includes a section on giving GenAI credit when it’s due. You can review how to cite GenAI here.
Remember, you are responsible for the final output of your work, even if you use GenAI to help.
Ethical and Privacy Considerations
Lesson 4 provides tips on keeping your data and privacy safe as well as ethical AI use in academia. For example, read privacy policies and be careful what personal data you input. You’ll also review the importance of maintaining academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism.
This lesson suggests using Microsoft Copilot’s Enterprise Plan, which is available with your UTSA login credentials. With this plan, your prompts will not be saved after you leave the page. This means your conversation is not saved on a server.
Best Practices and Effective Strategies
Lesson 5 provides you with practical ways to use GenAI, including information on how to judge the quality of AI output. Remember, you want to ensure your content is accurate and up-to-date.
This lesson also shares information about prompt engineering. You’ll learn how to design prompts to get the best output, including basic tips like using examples and being specific.
Remember to combine AI with your thoughts and make sure to maintain your voice in your content. Don’t just copy and paste, put it in your voice with your spin.
Resources and Support
Lesson 6, includes resources and organizations where you can learn more about GenAI. As a UTSA student, you have access to earn microcredentials and badges on a range of topics.
Whether you’re interested in learning about GenAI or project management, you can use Career Academy with Coursera. Here, you can earn free credentials from companies like IBM, Meta, and more. You also have access to LinkedIn Learning, which has 100+ courses on GenAI.
Completion Survey
After you finish the course, Lesson 7 is a completion survey. We’d love to get your thoughts and feedback and how you felt about the AI Essentials course!
Benefits for Students
Learning how to use AI in higher education is not just about gaining knowledge; it’s about unlocking your potential and preparing for the future. Regardless of your field of study, AI can benefit you in multiple ways, including giving you a competitive edge in multiple different job markets.
UTSA’s AI Essentials course equips you with the AI skills you need to boost creativity, analyze data, and streamline tasks.
“By making AI education more approachable, we’re helping students develop the skills they need to navigate an increasingly AI-driven world,” shared Paul.
Through learning how to safely and properly use AI, you’ll enhance your research, automation, and problem-solving skills. With a strong foundation in using AI, you may see new career opportunities and future advancements.
Employers are increasingly seeking AI-literate candidates, and having experience can significantly enhance your job prospects. By gaining AI skills, you’ll set yourself up to be at the front of this technological revolution. You’ll be ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Take the FREE Course Today!
If you’re ready to start your journey into the world of AI, take UTSA’s FREE AI Essentials: Guidelines and Approaches Course today. As we mentioned, this course isn’t just for those with a technical background. It’s designed to be helpful for all students, no matter what you’re studying.
As with all UTSA Online’s programs, the course is self-paced. You’ll have the flexibility you need to learn at your own pace.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your AI literacy and prepare for the future. Are you ready to take the first step towards mastering GenAI and unlocking new career opportunities?
To get started, click the link below. The course is free, and no login is needed, making it easy for you to dive right in.
Interested in one of UTSA’s 100% Online Programs?
UTSA Online offers several 100% online programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and post-graduate certificate programs. Explore all our programs to find which one is right for you.
If you are ready to start your career path, contact UTSA Online’s Undergraduate Enrollment Team at 210-458-4000 or onlineenrollment@utsa.edu, or the UTSA Online Graduate Enrollment Team at 210-458-4400 or onlinegrad@utsa.edu.
