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AI Literacy for SE Ohio

Course Overview

This course is designed to demystify artificial intelligence and turn a complex global technology into a practical local advantage. Developed specifically for the people of SE Ohio and Appalachia, this program moves beyond the hype to show you how AI actually works and how it can be used to strengthen your business, your career, and your community. Using a "Learn + Do" format, every module pairs a conceptual video with a hands-on exercise so you can start using these tools immediately, regardless of your previous tech experience.

Target Audience

Youth and adults ages 14–55 in Southeast Ohio and beyond. This includes students, small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community members who want to harness AI to tell their stories and build their futures.

Format

Self-paced online course featuring 5 modules. Each module includes a "Learn" video and a "Do" actionable exercise.

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Course Syllabus

Module 1: What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Before you can use it, you have to understand it. This module breaks down the history and the "why" behind AI, moving it from a sci-fi concept to a practical tool for the modern worker.

  • Learn (Video): Demystifying the Machine – A plain-language guide to what AI is (and what it isn’t).

  • Do (Exercise): The AI Audit – Identify three areas in your daily life or work where AI is already present and one area where it could save you time.

Module 2: How AI Thinks & Learns

Understanding Large Language Models (LLMs) and generative data. We explore how AI processes information so you can understand the logic behind the "magic."

  • Learn (Video): Beneath the Surface – How data shapes AI responses and the importance of "Algorithmic Validity."

  • Do (Exercise): The Logic Test – Compare how an AI assistant and a standard search engine respond to the same complex community-based question.

Module 3: AI Tools for Everyday Life & Work

A deep dive into the Leaders AI Accelerator Toolkit and other accessible platforms. We focus on productivity, content creation, and problem-solving.

  • Learn (Video): Your New Cognitive Partner – Practical demonstrations of AI for drafting emails, organizing schedules, and brainstorming business ideas.

  • Do (Exercise): The Prompt Engineer – Use a structured prompt template to generate a professional project outline or a community event flyer.

Module 4: AI Ethics, Privacy & Society

Innovation without ethics is a risk. This module addresses the critical concerns of data sovereignty, privacy, and how to use AI without compromising your professional or personal integrity.

  • Learn (Video): Safe & Sovereign – Understanding data privacy, bias in algorithms, and how to protect your digital footprint.

  • Do (Exercise): The Privacy Check – Review the settings of a popular AI tool and create a "Safe Use" checklist for your organization or family.

Module 5: AI & the Future of Your Community

AI is a tool for regional empowerment. We conclude by looking at how AI can help SE Ohio compete in the global market while staying rooted in local values.

  • Learn (Video): Building the Silicon Heartland – How AI can support local economic development, storytelling, and generational growth.

  • Do (Exercise): The Community Roadmap – Draft a 3-step plan for introducing one AI-driven improvement to your local business, school, or nonprofit.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will have a foundational understanding of AI logic, a personalized toolkit of AI resources, and the confidence to lead technological adoption in their own homes and workplaces.

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