Class 01 · Summer AI Series
AI 101: Understanding Artificial Intelligence
A one-hour class covering the foundations of AI. No tech background required.
If you have heard a lot about AI lately and are not sure what to make of it, this class is for you. In one hour, you will get a grounded, practical introduction to what AI actually is, how it works, and how to start using it. We skip the hype and focus on what is genuinely useful to know.
What We Cover
This is a true 101. Every topic is explained in plain language, with live demonstrations throughout.
The tools and platforms
We will walk through the major AI platforms available today, including ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot. You will understand what each one is, how they differ, and which might be most useful to you.
The different types of AI
Not all AI is the same. We will explain the difference between large language models, AI search overviews, generative image tools, and the AI already built into everyday software. By the end you will know what you are actually looking at when you encounter AI in the wild.
How AI generally works
You do not need to understand the technical details, but having a basic mental model of how these tools generate responses makes you a better user. We will cover this clearly and briefly.
How to think about working with AI
AI is a useful tool. It is not infallible, and it is not a replacement for your own judgment. We will talk through how to approach AI as a working partner, where it adds real value, and where to stay skeptical.
Prompt structuring
The quality of what you get out of AI depends largely on what you put in. We will cover simple, practical techniques for structuring your prompts to get more consistent and useful results. No special syntax required.
Data protection basics
A high-level overview of what happens to the information you share with AI tools, what you should and should not put into them, and how to make informed decisions about the platforms you use.
What You Will Walk Away With
- ✓A clear understanding of the AI landscape and the tools available to you
- ✓Enough working knowledge to use AI tools with confidence
- ✓A simple framework for writing prompts that actually work
- ✓Awareness of basic data protection considerations
- ✓A printed quick-reference guide with tools, prompts, and resources to keep using after the session
Session Details
Class
AI 101: Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Length
1 hour
Format
In-person, interactive, with live demos
Date
Tuesday, July 14
Time
7:00 – 8:00 pm
Location
Village Collective, Second Floor Goodwin Baker Building, Richmond
Price
$20 per person
Seating is limited.
Register
Register by sending $20 to @Caitlin-Filkins on Venmo. Scan the code below or search for her in the app.
Include “AI 101” in the payment note.
Who This Class Is For
This class is genuinely open to anyone. You do not need a background in technology, business, or any particular field. If you are curious about AI and want a clear, honest introduction, this is the right place to start.
It is also a good foundation before taking the other classes in the Summer AI Series:
You do not need to take AI 101 first, but many people find it helpful.
Questions
Reach out at hello@greenstatedata.com and we will get back to you quickly.
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