Student Guide to Generative Artificial Intelligence

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools use machine learning technologies to analyze prompts, data and images and generate output, including written text, voices, pictures, videos and more. These tools can mimic humans’ ability to learn, reason, solve problems and make decisions. We are just beginning to understand how these powerful tools can be used effectively and responsibly, but as you use these technologies, never forget: AI is not human.

AI tools are evolving rapidly

Evolving AI tools are changing so many aspects of our lives:

• AI is allowing students to access vast sources of knowledge and explore different ideas and ways of thinking.
• AI is changing how professors teach.
• AI is changing employer expectations. Most employers will expect you to graduate with skills and experience in using AI.
• AI is making it even more important that you gain continuous learning skills (learning how to learn) now that will serve you well throughout your life as AI evolves..
• The AI future will include exciting opportunities along with new realities related to ethics and our interactions with technology.

Where and how can I use AI?

(Guess what: It’s already almost everywhere)
AI powers the platforms we use every day, such as: Web search engines, Netflix, Amazon, Maps, YouTube, Spotify, Siri, Alexa, Instagram, TikTok, Uber and much more.

Free vs. paid AI tools

• In the near future, MJC may have licenses to provide AI accounts for students. In fact, California Community Colleges have entered into agreements with Google, Microsoft, Adobe and IBM to offer AI-related tools (see CalMatters article). 
• You can also use free versions provided by many major platforms.
• If you need more powerful or specialized tools, test different models before you subscribe.

Look for AI in your apps

• Many computer programs now have embedded AI capabilities. Microsoft includes Copilot in programs like Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Google Docs include embedded Gemini tools. Adobe and Zoom include AI- powered features.

Artificial intelligence is the field of computer science that uses machines to simulate intelligence

AI tools are now everywhere and many people may interact with them daily without even realizing it. In this environment, it is important to have basic knowledge of how AI tools function and understand various AI terms and acronyms.

• Machine Learning (ML): Using algorithms and data to train computers    
• Generative AI: Using AI to create new text, images, audio and video
• Natural language processing: ML focused on understanding and generating human language
• Large language models (LLMs): Computers trained to analyze prompts and generate human-like responses 
• Deep learning: ML that uses neural networks – computer models inspired by the human brain     
• LLM implementations: These include ChatGPT, Claude Gemini, Copilot, Perplexity and other special-use LLMs 
• Computer vision: ML that enables computers to see and act on visual information    
• Multimodal AI: Computers that can read and generate text, images, audio and video
• Productivity tools: AI-enhanced programs, such as email, word processing, spreadsheets, design programs and virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa

Types of AI tools

The AI tools listed here are examples; there are many others available. 

Generative AI tools

Specialized AI tools for research, writing and coding

Creative AI tools that generate images, videos and music

Analytical AI tools specialized in business intelligence, math, statistics and data visualization

Embedded AI capabilities in software programs

Open-source and customized tools available on communities

What is a prompt?

In generative AI, a prompt is the input — such as text, an image, or instructions — given to an AI model to guide and shape the content it generates in response. When you provide this input, you’ll learn how to have conversations similar to human interactions and critique the results carefully. These back-and-forth exchanges with the AI model will produce the best results.

5 guidelines for a good prompt

1. Use correct spelling and grammar. Write complete sentences.
2. Be clear, specific and detailed about your request to the AI.
3. Provide context and perspective to focus the AI output.
4. Break down complex tasks into multiple short prompts.
5. Specify the desired format, tone and style of the output.

Key elements of an effective AI prompt

* Based on a model developed by AI engineer Ben Hylak and endorsed by OpenAI President Greg Brockman 

Examples:
 

Poor prompt

Give me an idea for a service project.

Better prompt

I am a student assigned to work with my class members on a community project to help those who lack housing. What ideas do you have? 

Effective prompt

I have been assigned to work with members of my college sociology class on a community project to help those who lack housing. Suggest three practical projects my group of five students could complete in nine weeks, describe what steps and resources each project would require, and explain what the group would learn in the process. 

No matter what you study, you need to be skilled in current technologies, which may be offered free or at reduced cost at your school. New AI features are being infused into popular software you use every day, making it more user-friendly and powerful.

Productivity and document management software: Word-processing programs, calendars, Email clients, Google Drive, Office 365, Dropbox and others

Collaboration, communication and project management: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Workspace, Trello, Jira and others

Data competency: Spreadsheets (Excel, Google Sheets), database programs, data visualization software such as Tableau, Power BI, Venngage, Google Data Studio and others

Online research: General search engines, custom tools such as Google Scholar and discipline-specific tools available through your library

Multimedia and Web: Adobe applications, Powerpoint, WordPress, Audacity and cloud-based tools like Canva, Adobe Express and others

Basic computer systems: Windows, macOS and Linux operating systems and basic programming languages, such as Python, JavaScript or HTML/CSS

This guide is based  "The 2025 Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence" by Imagining the Digital Future, Elon University and American Association of Colleges and Universities is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.