UWRT 110 - Writing with AI: Practical Tools for Real-World Use

10 Noncredit Contact Hours
10 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours


This two-session course introduces participants to using generative AI tools to support writing and research in real-world contexts. Designed for beginners, the course focuses on practical use rather than technical knowledge or coding experience.

In the first session, participants will explore what AI tools can and cannot do, discuss common questions and concerns, and learn about security, privacy, and ethical considerations before working hands-on with writing and research tasks. Participants will also be invited to share their goals and what they’ve heard about AI so the course can adapt to their interests and needs.

Between sessions, participants will practice using AI tools with guided activities and will have opportunities to ask questions and receive guidance as they apply these tools to their own writing or research goals. The second session focuses on refining skills, troubleshooting challenges, evaluating AI-generated content, and developing a thoughtful, effective approach to using AI in everyday and professional contexts.

Technology Requirements: Participants should have basic familiarity with using a computer and the internet, such as navigating to websites and typing text. No prior experience with AI tools is required, and all necessary accounts will be provided during the course.

Tools Used: This course will use college-provided AI tools, including Google Gemini and NotebookLM. No personal accounts are required, and the skills taught will transfer to other AI tools.

Course Learning Outcomes:

1. 1. Work efficiently with AI tools to draft, process, and contextualize information for common workplace tasks.
2. 2. Evaluate and use AI-generated content responsibly, considering accuracy, bias, security, and ethical implications.
3. 3. Develop a simple, personal approach to working with AI that aligns with their goals and real-world context.

1. Introduction and Responsible Use, Session I (2.5 hours)
   1. What generative AI is—and what it isn’t
   2. Common questions, concerns, and misconceptions
   3. Security, privacy, and ethical considerations
   4. Introduction to AI tools for writing and research
   5. Guided, hands-on exploration
   6. Discussion of participant goals and interests
2. Practice and Support (Asynchronous Portion) (5 hours)
   1. Guided practice activities using AI tools
   2. Time to experiment and reflect
   3. Opportunities to ask questions and receive guidance
3. Refinement and Real-World Application, Session II (2.5 hours)
   1. Troubleshooting and common challenges
   2. Improving results through better questions and prompts
   3. Evaluating AI-generated content for quality and reliability
   4. Adapting AI tools to personal, professional, or creative goals
   5. Wrap-up, reflection, and next steps