Artificial intelligence is changing our world, and NAU is helping students and working professionals get a better understanding of how and when it can be used as a tool. This summer, four AI courses will emphasize practical, human-centered uses of AI, reflecting a growing demand for AI literacy beyond the tech industry.
Chih-Hsiung Tu, professor in the Department of Educational Specialties, said AI is rapidly changing how people learn, work, communicate and solve problems, so it is not only important for them to not only use AI tools, but also understand how AI affects learning, teaching, creativity, accessibility and decision-making.
“Many students already use AI in daily life, but often without enough understanding of how to use it thoughtfully and responsibly,” Tu said. “These courses are designed to help students become more confident, reflective and human-centered users of AI. We also hope students become lifelong learners and thoughtful AI collaborators who can work creatively and responsibly with AI in rapidly changing learning and professional environments.”
The courses are aimed at giving students practical skills they can immediately apply in their academic, professional and personal lives. Tu said the hope is for them to become more thoughtful about how AI can support their learning and human development with critical thinking, rather than simply replacing human thinking.
“The courses emphasize creativity, critical thinking, accessibility, human-centered learning and collaboration with AI tools,” Tu said. “Students will move beyond simply using AI tools. They will learn how to work with AI, evaluate AI outputs, manage AI-supported workflows and apply AI responsibly in learning and professional contexts.”
These classes are open to both undergraduate and graduate students, and Tu said they may be especially helpful for students interested in education, instructional design, business, communication, leadership, technology, training, healthcare and professional development.
AI for Master Learners explores how students and professionals can use AI as a thinking partner; Learning Science and Analytics looks at how people learn and how learning data can support decision-making and learning experiences; Designing Digital UDL focuses on inclusive and accessible digital learning; and Microlearning Design with Technology covers the design of short, focused learning experiences for modern learners.
“These courses are not only about technology,” Tu said. “They are also about people. We are trying to help students think about how AI can support learning, accessibility, inclusion, collaboration and human growth in thoughtful and responsible ways. In that sense, AI should not only make work faster, but it should also help us design learning experiences that connect people and support participation.”
For more information about the courses, visit the Educational Technology AI Institute website.
Editor’s note: The featured image is generated by AI.
Mariana Laas | NAU Communications
(928) 523-5050 | mariana.laas@nau.edu