5.1. Introduction
Jennifer Martin
In previous modules, we have focused on AI in the classroom and as a matter of academic integrity. But AI is not confined to the campus or the syllabus. It shapes how we teach, research, work, and live. Just as information literacy became essential once libraries and the internet expanded access to knowledge, AI literacy now prepares us to participate responsibly in a changing professional and social landscape.
Module 5 Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Identify common uses of AI across education, research, professional, and personal contexts.
- Evaluate benefits and risks of AI integration in daily work and life.
- Practice using AI tools responsibly to support productivity, learning, and decision-making.
- Reflect on your own values and goals when deciding how to use AI.
Key Idea: AI Can Be Applied In Many Domains
This module will explore AI in four domains:
- Education — how AI is shaping teaching, learning, and student support.
- Research — how AI accelerates discovery, analysis, and communication.
- Productivity and Personal Life — how AI tools impact professional and personal tasks.
- Applied Practice — quick challenges, role-based simulations, and projects that let you test ideas hands-on.
📖 Analogy: The Smartphone Shift (click to expand)
Think about the first time smartphones appeared in the workplace. At first, many saw them only as distractions. Over time, they became indispensable; calendars, cameras, research tools, and communication hubs all in one. AI is a similar shift: at first disruptive, but eventually a baseline tool that changes expectations for how we work, learn, and interact.
Looking Ahead
By the end of this module, you should feel more confident not only in using AI but also in deciding how and when its use aligns with your goals, values, and integrity. Next, in 5.2 AI in Education: Teaching, Learning, and Student Support, we will explore how AI is already reshaping teaching and learning. From grading support to personalized study aids, you will see both opportunities and challenges for educators and students alike.
