Introduction to Generative Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) broadly encompasses computer systems capable of tasks requiring human-level intelligence. A rapidly evolving branch, generative AI (GenAI), focuses on algorithms that create novel digital content from patterns identified in training data. GenAI chatbots like ChatGPT allow users to supply prompts generating customized text, images, audio, video and more.

Serving as an non-technical overview, the first section of this resource, “Introduction to Generative Artificial Intelligence”, defines key AI-related terminology, identifies the major GenAI models and tools, and outlines foundational GenAI competencies students need to develop and apply, when deciding whether or not to use GenAI in their studies.