CIS C012N: Working with Artificial Intelligence Tools and Assistants
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Eff Term | Fall 2026 |
| Curriculum Committee Approval Date | 11/14/2025 |
| Top Code | 070200 - Computer Information Systems (CTE) |
| Units | 0 Total Units |
| Hours | 27 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 27) |
| Total Outside of Class Hours | 0 |
| Total Student Learning Hours | 27 |
| Course Credit Status | Noncredit (N) |
| Material Fee | No |
| Basic Skills | Not Basic Skills (N) |
| Repeatable | Yes; Repeat Limit 99 |
| Open Entry/Open Exit | No |
| Grading Policy | P/NP/SP Non-Credit (D),
|
Course Description
This course provides hands-on experience using common AI tools and virtual assistants. Students will explore chatbots (e.g., ChatGPT), image generators (e.g., DALL·E), and productivity tools (e.g., AI writing assistants, scheduling apps), gaining practical skills for everyday and workplace use. Not Transferable.
Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)
- Use AI-powered tools to complete basic productivity tasks.
- Create and refine inputs (prompts) to get accurate and useful outputs from AI systems.
- Compare features and functions of different AI-powered platforms and applications.
Course Objectives
- 1. Identify and describe the core functions of commonly used AI tools, including chatbots, image generators, and virtual assistants.
- 2. Demonstrate methods to interact effectively with AI-powered platforms through prompt engineering and input refinement.
- 3. Explain how to complete basic productivity tasks using AI applications such as writing assistants, transcription tools, or scheduling bots.
- 4. Compare strengths and limitations of AI tools used for text generation, image creation, and task automation.
- 5. Explore accessibility and inclusivity features supported by AI tools in everyday and workplace settings.
- 6. Demonstrate methods to evaluate the relevance and accuracy of AI-generated content across various platforms.
- 7. Discuss best practices for safe, effective, and responsible use of AI tools in personal and professional contexts.
Lecture Content
- Introduction to AI-Powered Tools
- Getting Started with Chatbots
- Prompt Engineering Basics
- Using AI for Writing Assistance
- AI for Scheduling and Task Management
- Image Generation Tools
- AI for Accessibility and Inclusion
- Evaluating AI Outputs
- Comparing AI Tools
- Responsible Use of AI Tools
Method(s) of Instruction
- Enhanced NC Lect (NC1)
- Live Online Enhanced NC Lect (NC9)
- Online Enhanced NC Lect (NC5)
Instructional Techniques
This course will utilize a combination of lecture, system simulators, classroom discussion with student interactions, problem-solving techniques, quizzes, exams, and troubleshooting assignments to achieve the goals and objectives of this course. All instructional methods are consistent across all modalities.
Reading Assignments
Read open educational resource materials, journal articles and corporate reports, news articles, interactive career websites, and privacy policies.
Writing Assignments
Complete short written reflections analyzing how AI tools can improve communication, productivity, and creativity in workplace settings. Additional assignments may include comparing features of different AI platforms and evaluating the ethical and practical implications of using AI-generated content.
Out-of-class Assignments
Practice using AI-powered tools such as chatbots, image generators, or writing assistants to complete real-world tasks like drafting emails, creating visuals, or organizing information. They will also reflect on their experiences through short journal entries or discussion posts that analyze tool effectiveness, accuracy, and ethical considerations.
Methods of Student Evaluation
- Short Quizzes
- Written Assignments
- Projects (Individual/Group)
- Problem Solving Exercises
- Skills Demonstration
Demonstration of Critical Thinking
Evaluate the accuracy, usefulness, and ethical implications of AI-generated outputs to make informed decisions in real-world applications.
Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration
Craft effective prompts, analyze AI responses, and apply hands-on techniques to complete real-world productivity and communication tasks.
Resources Subscreen
- Open Education Resource: J.J. Sylvia IV. The Data Renaissance: Analyzing the Disciplinary Effects of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Beyond. (September 2025).
Eligible Discipline(s)
- Computer information systems (computer network installation, microcomputer technology, computer applications): Any bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience, or any associate degree and six years of professional experience.
- Computer service technology: Any bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience, or any associate degree and six years of professional experience.
- Computer science: Master’s degree in computer science or computer engineering OR bachelor’s degree in either of the above AND master’s degree in mathematics, cybernetics, business administration, accounting or engineering OR bachelor’s degree in engineering AND master’s degree in cybernetics, engineering mathematics, or business administration OR bachelor’s degree in mathematics AND master’s degree in cybernetics, engineering mathematics, or business administration OR bachelor’s degree in any of the above AND a master’s degree in information science, computer information systems, or information systems OR the equivalent. Note: Courses in the use of computer programs for application to a particular discipline may be classified, for the minimum qualification purposes, under the discipline of the application. Master's degree required.
