AI Literacy Essentials
A Self-Paced Course for All SJSU spartans
Welcome to AI Literacy Essentials for All Spartans! This short, self-paced course will help you understand what artificial intelligence is, how to use it responsibly, and how it can support your success at SJSU and beyond.
Getting Started
AI Literacy Essentials is free and open to all SJSU undergraduate and graduate students and now available to current faculty and staff. It’s not required, but it’s highly recommended if you want a quick, practical intro to AI tools and concepts.
Incentive for students: Complete the course this semester to be entered into a monthly drawing for exclusive SJSU Crocs. One winner will be selected each month the earlier you finish, the more chances you’ll have to win. To enroll, please complete the short interest form below.
What You’ll Learn
This course includes four core modules. Each one introduces a different aspect of AI literacy and builds toward confident, informed, and responsible use of AI tools in your academic and professional life.
Module 1: Exploring AI - What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Start Using It
Build a clear understanding of what artificial intelligence is and how generative AI tools work. Consider how AI is beginning to shape education, and explore some of the tools and terms you’ll encounter throughout the course.
Module 2: Using AI Responsibly: Ethics, Integrity, and Academic Success
Examine how to make thoughtful, ethical decisions when using AI including when and how it’s appropriate to use AI in your coursework, and how to appropriately cite or disclose your use of AI tools.
Module 3: Using AI to Support Your Learning, Writing, and Critical Thinking Together
Practice strategies for using AI to read actively, organize your thinking, write more effectively, and engage with complex ideas while still developing your own voice, ideas, and purpose.
Module 4: Campus Resources, Career Skills, and Your Next Steps
Connect with campus-supported tools and resources, identify how AI is being used in your field, and take steps toward integrating AI into your academic and professional goals.
How This Course Works
This course is broken into 4 short modules. You can complete them all in about 6 hours total, or take it at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll find short quizzes, reflection prompts, and practical activities you can apply immediately in your classes.
Developed collaboratively by the AI Faculty Fellows, CFETI, the King Library, the Career Center, the Writing Center, and Associated Students, the course offers a practical foundation in understanding and applying AI tools responsibly.
Student Voices
Throughout this course, you’ll hear from SJSU students who share how they’re already using AI in class, in group projects, and even in career prep. Watch for these spotlights and think about how AI fits into your own journey.
Who Is This Course For?
AI Literacy Essentials is for any SJSU student interested in using generative AI thoughtfully, ethically, and effectively in their academic work.
Whether you're just getting started with AI tools or looking to build more confidence and clarity in how you use them, this course is a great place to begin.
Want to Learn More or Share Your Interests?
We're building this course with students in mind and we’d love your input!
If there’s something you’re curious about or a specific AI skill you’d like to learn,
you can share your interests now through this short Google Form. Your feedback helps us shape future content and offer additional student training
during the semester.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the schedule?
It is a short, self paced course. Start as soon as you are added to Canvas and move at your own speed. There is no fixed due date, but we recommend finishing by the end of the Fall semester to make the most of the learning opportunities.
Is this course mandatory?
No. AI Literacy Essentials is not required but a highly recommended resource to help you build confidence in using AI effectively and ethically for academic tasks and beyond.
Am I being charged for this course?
No. The course is free for all SJSU students through Canvas.
Do I have to take it this semester, or can I do it in summer?
You can take it anytime. It is self paced, and you are welcome to complete it this semester or during the summer, whichever works best for you.
Why did it show up in my Canvas if it is optional?
It appears in Canvas so it is easy to find and access. Enrollment is encouraged, not required.
What does the course cover?
You will learn what AI is and how to use it responsibly. The focus is on core concepts, practical awareness, and good habits for academic and professional settings.
To learn more about the course content and its coverage, please visit the AI Literacy Essentials Page.
Will it teach advanced AI topics?
Not quite. This course does not delve into advanced or specialized modeling topics. If you're seeking research-level content, we recommend exploring department offerings or research groups. The course focuses on foundational concepts and responsible AI use, with an emphasis on the appropriate application of existing tools.
Additionally, be sure to check out Module 4: Campus Resources, Career Skills, and Your Next Steps. It will guide you through available resources and opportunities for further development.
Who should take this?
Anyone who wants a clear, practical starting point with AI, especially if you are looking to build confidence using AI tools ethically and effectively in classes or at work.
Can faculty join or preview the course?
Yes. Faculty can use the same form to enroll or preview, or email cfeti@sjsu.edu for more information.
Are there any incentives?
Yes. Finish the course this semester and you will be entered into a monthly SJSU Crocs drawing. The earlier you finish, the more entries you will have.
How long does it take to finish?
It is designed to be short and manageable. Because it is self paced, your time may vary. Plan to complete it within the semester so you can take advantage of the incentive.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email cfeti@sjsu.edu and we will be happy to help.
