Foundations of Generative AI

This unit introduces learners to GPT models, ChatGPT account types, core prompt-engineering practices, and practical applications across marketing, education, HR, and everyday tools. Students will build foundational skills in producing reliable outputs, basic multimodal interactions, responsible AI considerations, and simple integration patterns to prepare for advanced pipeline, data management, and development work in later units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and compare features, capabilities, and limitations of different GPT models and ChatGPT account versions and distinguish ChatGPT from search engines and BI tools
• Apply core prompt-engineering techniques—including formatting, defining desired outputs before prompting, output stitching, and prompting for text versus non-text—to produce clear, reproducible results and basic multimodal outputs
• Evaluate ethical, legal, and practical implications of generative AI by applying responsible AI principles, assessing risks (bias, IP, quality), and justifying the continuing need for human oversight in real-world scenarios
• Demonstrate foundational operational skills by setting up an individual ChatGPT account, managing input data for targeted outputs, implementing basic model-chaining patterns, and integrating ChatGPT functionality into everyday applications