Digital Learning Technologies is introducing the Fall 2026 AI Foundations Series this August. This semester-long professional learning opportunity is designed for students, staff, researchers, and faculty looking to build practical skills with impactful AI tools.
The series combines weekly Thursday workshops with Tuesday Tinker Labs to create a hands-on learning experience. This approach helps participants move beyond theory to apply AI in research, teaching, learning, and workplace productivity.
Participants will explore several leading AI platforms throughout the semester, including ChatGPT Edu, Google Gemini, NotebookLM, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity. The series may also include Claude, depending on enterprise availability, as well as other emerging AI technologies and specialized tools.
Workshops will cover topics such as AI fundamentals, prompt engineering, responsible AI use, workflow design, research support, document analysis, and practical applications in higher education. The Tuesday Tinker Labs offer dedicated time for individualized support, experimentation, and project work from Digital Learning Technologies staff.
The series is scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with a session on ChatGPT Edu Fundamentals. The semester will conclude on December 10 with the AI Foundations Showcase and Semester Wrap-Up, where participants can share lessons learned and innovative use cases.
Registration for the series is free for members of the University community. Workshops are held on Thursdays from 1:00–2:00 PM, while Tinker Labs take place on Tuesdays from 1:00–2:00 PM.
The curriculum includes specialized sessions on topics such as Google Gemini, NotebookLM, and prompt engineering across multiple platforms. The schedule also accounts for Fall Break from October 10–18 and Thanksgiving Break from November 26–29.
