BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana State University has launched a free online course designed to provide students, employees and the public with foundational knowledge about artificial intelligence and its responsible use.
The AI Literacy Essentials course is offered through LSU Online’s professional development program. It is currently available to LSU students, faculty and staff and will open to the general public Aug. 26.
The introductory course focuses on how AI can be used effectively, professionally and ethically as the technology becomes more widely adopted in education, business, health care, government and everyday life. No previous AI experience is required.
“As Louisiana’s flagship university, LSU has a responsibility to lead in emerging areas that will shape our state’s future,” Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Joseph Messina said. “In line with President Rousse’s vision of access and excellence, AI Literacy Essentials provides broad access to foundational AI education and helps prepare students and citizens alike for the opportunities and challenges ahead.”
Course material is delivered through short readings, videos and self-check activities. Topics include the foundations of AI, responsible and ethical AI use, academic integrity, information literacy and verification, and practical AI skills for learning and work.
LSU said the course was developed in response to a growing need for introductory AI guidance identified by Student Government and other campus stakeholders. The university’s Office of Academic Affairs led the initiative, while LSU Online managed development of the course.
Senior Learning Experience Designer Richelle DeCuir worked with an interdisciplinary group of faculty members from areas including computer science and engineering, philosophy and religious studies, information studies, education, entrepreneurship and information systems.
LSU students can use the course to establish a common foundation in AI literacy as they progress through their degree programs. Faculty members can incorporate the material into their courses to establish shared expectations for ethical AI use, academic integrity and information verification.
The university said the course can also be used outside LSU by educators, employers, libraries and community organizations for professional development and discussions about AI.