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1 How to use GenAI
How Does This Work?
There are two basic methods for using GenAI.
The first style is chat bot. It is used with tools like Copilot and ChatGPT, and you converse with the software much like talking to a website’s help chatbot or using instant messenger.
The second style is directive in which you select a button or enter text, and the tool will perform the function. This is used in Adobe AI such as the generative fill button.
Key Terms
As you work more with GenAI, you’ll encounter some specific vocabulary. Here is a list of key terms to know.
GenAI: Generative Artificial Intelligence describes the software that uses an LLM to produce something. GenAI is also frequently used to reference tools, platforms, or chatbots (e.g., ChatGPT is a chatbot that uses GenAI).
LLM: Large Language Model describes the process where the GenAI program stores, organizes, and references a database of artifacts (e.g., articles, images, text) to construct output. In this way, it has “learned” the content and can predict combinations of words and sentences based on existing materials in a certain context.
Prompt: The instructions or content a user submits to initiate GenAI’s LLM and retrieval of information. This could be something like “Write me a poem.” or “What makes a good marriage proposal?”
Reiteration: The back-and-forth process of interacting with GenAI to refine results. This involves resubmitted, adding, or editing prompts to guide GenAI into making a more specific or desired product. If the conversation remains in the same initiated topic, GenAI “remembers” previous tasks and outputs and can revise. Each version of output is a reiteration of the first,
Hallucination: False or incorrect material created by GenAI such as references to nonexistent citations or people, miscalculations in math, or inaccurate statements.
Tutorials
Writing a Good Prompt
To improve your results, crafting an intentional, detailed, and direct initial prompt is helpful. It can reduce the amount of reiteration in your process. Ethan Mollick, in their series of blog posts on GenAI prompt writing, recommends adding a specific structure to a prompt. This structure includes the following components:
Role – assign an identify to the GenAI (such as instructional designer or manager)
Goal – describe the end product or achievement
Instructions – direct GenAI’s process with details and steps
Example – provide a similar output that GenAI can model
Expertise – add important facts, context, or concepts so GenAI can make a more accurate output
Constraints – define limitations or what you do NOT want GenAI to produce (such as length or depth)
Compare the two prompts and results below. What is missing? What does GenAI focus on?
Write a discussion board prompt for me
You are a psychology professor for an introductory psychology class. Create a discussion board prompt about Sigmund Freud that encourages students to debate or argue. Sigmund Freud is known for his theories on dreams, sexuality, and ego. Students should be able to answer this prompt with about 100 words. The post should not require sources.
Topic: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Society
Prompt: In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides, impacting various aspects of our lives. From self-driving cars to personalized recommendations on streaming platforms, AI is becoming increasingly integrated into our daily routines. For this discussion, consider the following questions:
Ethical Dilemmas: What ethical challenges arise from the use of AI? How do we balance technological advancements with potential risks to privacy, bias, and job displacement?
Bias in AI Algorithms: AI algorithms are trained on historical data, which can perpetuate biases present in society. How can we address and mitigate bias in AI systems to ensure fairness and equity?
Job Disruption: As AI automates certain tasks, jobs may be at risk. How can we prepare the workforce for this shift? What role should education and retraining play?
Transparency and Accountability: Should AI systems be transparent about their decision-making processes? How can we hold AI developers and companies accountable for their creations?
Feel free to share your insights, personal experiences, and any relevant examples. Remember to engage with your peers’ responses to foster a meaningful discussion!
Discussion Board Prompt: The Controversial Legacy of Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, left an indelible mark on the field of psychology. His theories on dreams, sexuality, and the structure of the mind continue to provoke debate among scholars and practitioners. For this discussion, consider the following questions:
Dream Interpretation: Freud believed that dreams were the “royal road to the unconscious.” Do you agree? Why or why not? Share an example from your own life or popular culture to support your viewpoint.
Sexuality and Repression: Freud’s ideas about sexual development and repression challenged societal norms. How relevant are these concepts today? Discuss whether sexual repression still plays a role in shaping behavior and mental health.
The Ego’s Battle: Freud introduced the concept of the ego as the mediator between the id (our primal desires) and the superego (society’s moral standards). Is this model still applicable in understanding human behavior? Can you think of situations where the ego struggles to balance these conflicting forces?
Remember, your responses should be concise (around 100 words) and thoughtful. Feel free to engage with your peers’ perspectives and respectfully challenge their viewpoints.
This example illustrates the benefits of a more detailed and intentional prompt.
