AI Tools for Academic Sucess

Description

Using AI Tools for Academic Success

Artificial Intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday academic work. Many students are already using AI tools for homework, research, brainstorming, and writing support, but very few have been taught how to use these tools safely, responsibly, and effectively.

Why This Workshop Matters

This workshop helps students build digital literacy skills that are becoming more important in school and beyond. Instead of treating AI like a shortcut, students will learn how to use it as a smart learning assistant. They will practice how to ask better questions, check whether AI answers are accurate, and understand when AI use is appropriate for academic work.

In this hands-on 3-hour workshop, middle school students will explore how AI works, how prompts shape responses, how to fact check AI-generated content, and how to use AI appropriately in academic settings. The goal is to help students become thoughtful and capable users of modern technology.

What Students Will Learn

• How Artificial Intelligence works in simple, student-friendly terms
• Common AI tools and apps students may encounter
• What makes a strong prompt
• How prompts affect AI responses
• How to fact check AI answers
• Appropriate and inappropriate uses of AI for school
• How AI can support research, brainstorming, and studying

Hands-On Activities

• Writing and improving prompts
• Comparing weak prompts and strong prompts
• Testing how prompt wording changes results
• Fact checking AI-generated answers
• Practicing appropriate AI use for academic work
• Reviewing examples of helpful and unhelpful AI responses

Course Outline

Part 1: How AI Works

Students will learn what AI is, how it generates responses, and why it can sometimes make mistakes.

Part 2: Common AI Tools and Apps

Students will explore common types of AI tools and discuss how they are used in school and everyday life.

Part 3: What Is in a Prompt?

Students will learn how prompts guide AI output and how better prompts produce better results.

Part 4: Fact Checking AI Responses

Students will practice reviewing AI-generated information and checking whether it is accurate and reliable.

Part 5: Appropriate Use of AI

Students will discuss responsible use of AI, academic honesty, and examples of acceptable use for school assignments and study support.

What to Bring

• A working laptop
• Laptop charger

We will provide internet access.

Prerequisite

Students should be comfortable using a laptop and typing. No prior coding or AI experience is required.

Workshop Details

• Duration: 3 hours
• Fee: $90.00
• Minimum Students: 6
• Maximum Students: 12
• Workshop Date: March 20th and 21st
• Recommended Grade Range:6 to 8
• Lab Location: Irvine lab
• Prerequisite: No prior AI or coding experience is required

Students will leave with practical AI skills they can apply right away in school

Ideal for middle school students who want to learn how to use AI tools safely, effectively, and responsibly for academic success.