In each module information page, you'll encounter prompts marked like this:

Try This Prompt:

"Italicized text in a blockquote box with specific AI instructions"

These appear 6-7 times per module and are designed to move you from reading about AI to actually using it. Each “Try This Prompt” text is a direct link to Microsoft Copilot, which is free to use for most Washington State Community and Technical College faculty and staff through Microsoft 365.

Why They're There

Hands-on Practice - These prompts get you interacting with actual AI tools immediately.
Personalized Learning - Each prompt can be adapted to your specific role, discipline, or current challenges.
Low-Stakes Experimentation - Practice in a safe environment before using AI for actual work tasks.
Building Prompt Skills - Learn what works (and what doesn't) through direct experience.

How to Use Them

Copy the italicized text from the blockquote
Modify bracketed placeholders [like this] with your specific information
Paste into your chosen AI platform
Iterate - If the first response isn't useful, refine your prompt
Reflect - What worked? What would you change next time?

Top Generative AI Platforms

Before reading about the different AI platforms, please keep in mind that the AI landscape changes quickly. Some tools may have gained or lost features since this course was created in Fall 2025.

Comparison of Top Generative AI Platforms
Platform	Free Access	Strengths	Limitations
BoodleBox	Free tier available	• AI workspace for teams and classrooms • Access to multiple models • Good for brainstorming, co-writing, and comparing AI outputs	• Limited free credits and shared sessions • Requires sign-up and login for use • Interface can feel complex for new users
Microsoft Copilot	Free with Edge or Microsoft 365	• Built on GPT-5 • Integrated with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint • Web-connected and free for most WA CTC professionals	• Best performance in Edge • Some features depend on Microsoft 365 plan • Occasional lag or formatting issues
ChatGPT (OpenAI)	Free	• Free access now includes GPT-5 • Widely used and reliable • Excellent for lesson planning, writing, and idea generation • Supports text, images, and files	• Free tier has message and speed limits • Some advanced tools and integrations (like data analysis and custom GPTs) require Plus subscription • Occasional factual errors or outdated information
Claude (Anthropic)	Free (limited daily use)	• Excellent at reasoning and handling long documents • Follows complex instructions well • Helpful for summarizing or revising large texts	• Daily message cap on free tier • No image generation • Paid plan needed for consistent heavy use
Gemini (Google)	Free (basic tier)	• Integrates tightly with Google Workspace • Can access up-to-date web information • Handles text, image, and code inputs well	• Free plan has usage limits and slower model • Accuracy varies with complex prompts • Privacy concerns within Google ecosystem
Perplexity AI	Free (limited queries)	• Real-time web search with cited sources • Excellent for research and quick fact-checking • Clean, minimalist interface	• Query limits on free tier • Less suitable for creative or instructional design writing • Smaller context window than competitors

Getting Started

First-Time Users:

Start with ChatGPT or Copilot (most accessible)
Create a free account
Try your first "Try This Prompt" from Module 1
Don't worry about perfect results

Privacy Note: Never input student names, grades, or confidential information into any AI platform. When adapting prompts, use generic placeholders instead of real data.

Remember: The goal isn't mastery; it's familiarity. Each prompt you try builds your understanding of how AI responds and how to communicate with it effectively.