Generative AI Learning Resources at Rowan University: A Comprehensive Guide

Rowan University Libraries actively hosts and promotes workshops focused on Generative AI, serving as a hub for the GenAI Learning Community. These workshops are free and accessible to everyone, including the general public, making them a valuable resource for the entire community. The library offers a range of sessions designed to equip participants with practical skills and critical insights into AI tools. These workshops cover essential topics, from understanding the fundamentals of AI to exploring specific applications and ethical considerations. Attendees can view and register for all upcoming workshops through the library's dedicated portal.

Google Notebook LM is an AI tool licensed by Rowan University that offers a unique solution for managing information overload, particularly for academic pursuits. The 'Google Notebook LM: What you Need to Know' session introduces this powerful resource, which can assist in creating study guides for courses and engaging with up to 50 different sources simultaneously. This workshop explores how Google Notebook LM can streamline research processes and help users navigate vast amounts of information more effectively. As with all AI tools, ethical considerations are a significant part of the discussion, ensuring users understand the responsible application of this technology.

Rowan University is actively integrating and educating its community on approved AI tools. The library offers focused micro-workshops (15 minutes each) to introduce these powerful applications. 'Introduction to Rowan Approved AI Tools: Copilot' demonstrates Microsoft Copilot's academic uses, including analyzing research data in Excel, generating summary insights, and managing tasks in Word, PowerPoint, and email, with a strong emphasis on proper attribution. 'Introduction to Rowan Approved AI Tools: Firefly' explores Adobe Firefly for AI-powered visual creation, such as custom infographics, concept diagrams, and presentation graphics, also covering citation and attribution. 'Introduction to Rowan Approved AI tools: Google Gemini' provides a live demonstration of using Gemini for research literature synthesis, research question generation, data interpretation, and writing assistance, alongside discussions on citations, institutional policies, and disclosure requirements.

For those seeking a deeper dive into Generative AI and its implications, Rowan University's library has curated a selection of relevant books. These titles cover a broad spectrum of AI topics, from foundational concepts to ethical considerations and practical applications. 'Introduction to Artificial Intelligence' by Ahmed Banafa offers a comprehensive overview of current trends. 'The Cambridge Handbook of Responsible Artificial Intelligence' delves into the philosophical, ethical, legal, and societal challenges of AI. 'Generative AI, Cybersecurity, and Ethics' by Mohammad Rubyet Islam equips readers with skills for the evolving landscape of AI and cyber threats. 'Ethical Artificial Intelligence' by Jordan Richard Schoenherr provides an interdisciplinary perspective on AI ethics. Other titles explore AI in bioinformatics, business applications for non-engineers, the fundamental question of 'What Is Artificial Intelligence?', and practical guides on 'Teaching with AI'.

The resources provided by Rowan University's Campbell Library underscore the transformative potential of Generative AI across various domains. By offering workshops, curated reading lists, and access to online learning platforms, the university is committed to fostering a knowledgeable and responsible approach to AI adoption. As GenAI continues to evolve, it is crucial for students, faculty, and staff to engage with these tools critically and ethically. Understanding prompt engineering, verifying information, and being aware of AI's limitations are key to harnessing its power effectively. Embracing these learning resources empowers the Rowan community to navigate the complexities of AI and leverage its benefits for academic and professional growth, while upholding principles of integrity and responsible innovation.