Free Course

Artificial Intelligence 101 for Schools

Is artificial intelligence a cure-all for busy educators or a terrifying tool to be banned from schools everywhere? Explore the ins and outs of artificial intelligence and how it can affect your classroom and school. 
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skill level

  • Basic

Format

  • Online, self-paced

PD HOURS AWARDED

  • 2

Number of quizzes

  • 5

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About this course

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as both a fascinating new frontier and a source of apprehension for educators.  Is AI a cure-all for the multitude of challenges faced by busy teachers and administrators, or is it a Pandora's Box of potential problems, best left unopened within our schools?

In this beginner course, we'll explore both the exciting possibilities and the valid concerns surrounding AI in education. From lesson planning to data entry, AI has the potential to free up valuable time for school staff and create individualized learning paths for students. Gain the information and skills you need to confidently decide how AI fits into your teaching!

Your new superpowers

  • Understand the historical context of AI 
  • Advocate for ethical AI usage in your school
  • Practice writing powerful prompts for AI chats
  • Use AI tools to write lesson plans, assessments, etc.
  • Navigate the challenges and limitations of AI
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"This professional development was very well presented. I liked how it was broken down with examples. This makes it easier to understand and to follow."
L. H.
"This was such a valuable resource to break open the challenges and possibilities of AI within the educational framework. I like the engaging combination of videos, readings, and other digital resources. Thank you for providing this!"
D. L.
"Definitely interesting and interactive. I liked that I could go at my own pace and no rush!"
D. A.
"It was a great start to learning more about AI and how to use it in the classroom."
A. M.
"I really liked the section that gave tools for educators to use and how you gave examples of how to use those tools."
S. D.
"Thank you! This was really up-to-date and relevant to current practices."
A. M.

Course syllabus

Explore everything this course has to offer, module-by-module.

Taught by our LTC team

LTC Lead Regional Educational Technology Coordinator, Northern Illinois

Ben Sondgeroth

Ben Sondgeroth serves as the LTC’s Lead Regional Educational Technology Coordinator. Ben began his career as a history teacher in Morrison, IL where he initiated and coordinated the district’s iPad pilot program, redesigning the curriculum to effectively integrate the new technology. During this time, he developed a passion for sharing with other teachers exciting new ways to use technology in education.
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LTC Human-centered Technology specialist

Holly Kelly

Holly Kelly is a Human-Centered Technology Specialist for the Learning Technology Center. In partnership with ROE 9 and the Illinois State Board of Education’s Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Hubs, Holly assists educators throughout the state in addressing digital responsibility, fostering positive online behaviors, and enhancing social-emotional skills among students.
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LTC REGIONAL Educational Technology Coordinator,
Chicagoland

Eric Santos

Eric Santos (he/him) is a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center, serving the greater Chicagoland region. Eric believes in advocating for greater equity in educational opportunities. He provides professional development and consultation on educational technology, STEM programs and makerspaces, and emerging technologies.
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LTC REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR,
West-central Illinois

Lisa Schwartz

Lisa Schwartz (she/her) serves as the LTC’s Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for west central Illinois. Lisa is passionate about meaningful professional development and creating teacher and student leaders. She facilitates professional learning events regionally and statewide and provides support to school districts related to digital learning and technology integration.
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LTC Computer Science and STEM Program Manager

Sarah Phelps

Sarah Phelps (she/her) is the LTC’s Program Manager for Computer Science and STEM. Sarah takes great joy in seeing students learn expansively through technology as well as working with the educators who strive to make those “eureka” moments happen every day.
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ROE 50 Director of the computer science Development program

Joe Cipfl

Joe Cipfl (he/him) is the Director of the Computer Science Development Program for the St. Clair County Regional Office of Education (ROE 50) in Illinois. Prior to his current role, Joe served as a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator, Classroom Science/Technology Teacher, Department Chair, University Instructor, and Building-Level Tech Coordinator.
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LTC Online Learning Coordinator & Course Designer

Matt Jacobson

Matt Jacobson previously served as the Online Learning Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center. Matt develops engaging synchronous and asynchronous online and in-person training opportunities for educators and administrators. He is now enjoying his retirement. Thank you, Matt!
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Learning Technology Center of Illinois

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) is a program of the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), and we are Illinois’ technology system of support for K-12 school districts and educators. We know the importance of technology in the modern learning environment, and that is why we work across the state to develop services and programs that have a meaningful and lasting impact. Our scope is broad, our work is diverse, and our team and partners are dedicated. We are the LTC.

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