Imagine walking into class with a digital co-teacher who can help you draft rubrics, generate reading passages, or create differentiated lesson plans in seconds. That’s the promise of Generative AI—and it’s already reshaping how we teach and learn.
Offered by SchoolDay Academy, powered by Coursera, the course Generative AI: Introduction and Applications helps educators build confidence and creativity with the same AI tools transforming today’s industries. Developed by IBM’s Rav Ahuja, this beginner-friendly course shows how AI can enhance—not replace—the human art of teaching.
By the end, you’ll understand not only what Generative AI is but how to use it responsibly to spark innovation in your classroom.
Why This Course Matters
Teachers today are navigating a new frontier—where creativity meets computation. From designing personalized learning activities to supporting students in ethical AI use, the demand for foundational AI knowledge is growing fast.
This course bridges that gap. It’s designed for educators who want to stay ahead of the curve—without needing a background in computer science. In just eight hours, you’ll explore how Generative AI creates text, images, code, and videos, and how these tools can transform lesson planning, assessment design, and student engagement.
As Heather Sherburn, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology (retired), reminds us:
“Generative AI doesn’t replace great teaching—it amplifies it.”
This is professional development that keeps pace with innovation, helps you meet PD requirements, and strengthens your role as an instructional leader in the digital age.
What You’ll Learn
Across three interactive modules, this course introduces Generative AI concepts through readings, labs, and real-world applications. You’ll:
- Define and distinguish Generative AI from traditional models.
- Discover real-world applications in education, healthcare, finance, and entertainment.
- Explore tools and models like ChatGPT, DALL·E, Stable Diffusion, and Synthesia.
- Gain hands-on experience through IBM’s Generative AI Classroom.
- Develop responsible AI awareness, understanding ethics and limitations.
Course Details
- Time to Complete: 8 hours (self-paced)
- Modules: 3 interactive modules + 5 practical assignments
- Certificate: Shareable upon completion
These modules are designed for everyone—teachers, students, and professionals—offering a foundation that blends creativity, ethics, and applied practice.
Real-World Impact
Picture this: you’re preparing a creative writing unit. Instead of spending hours designing prompts, you use Generative AI to create differentiated examples at varying reading levels. Students, in turn, use AI tools to brainstorm and refine their writing, gaining both literacy and digital citizenship skills.
For teachers, the benefits include:
- Saving valuable planning time.
- Reducing burnout with automated prep support.
- Modeling responsible AI use for students.
- Creating lessons that blend creativity, critical thinking, and technology.
You’ll leave this course with practical skills that make AI a safe, supportive classroom ally—one that enhances engagement and equity.
Why SchoolDay Academy Recommends This Course
At SchoolDay Academy (SDA), we believe AI literacy is the new digital literacy. This course aligns with SDA’s mission to empower educators with flexible, affordable, and future-ready professional learning.
Through SDA, districts can deliver this course (and others like it) as part of unified PD plans—complete with compliance reporting, certificate tracking, and funding alignment.
All for a fraction of traditional PD costs.
That’s professional development made simple, secure, and sustainable.
Conclusion
Generative AI isn’t science fiction—it’s your next teaching partner. This course gives you the foundation to use it with confidence and creativity.
Start learning Generative AI: Introduction and Applications today on SchoolDay Academy (powered by Coursera) and take your first step toward AI-ready teaching.