Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming education by providing educators with new opportunities to streamline lesson planning, create instructional materials, improve communication, increase productivity, and personalize learning experiences. While AI cannot replace the expertise, professional judgment, and relationships that educators bring to teaching, it can serve as a valuable tool that enhances instructional planning and supports professional practice when used thoughtfully and responsibly. This 5-hour CTLE course provides educators with a practical introduction to artificial intelligence and its applications in educational settings. Participants will explore foundational AI concepts and learn how to use AI to support instructional planning, generate educational resources, improve communication, streamline professional tasks, and enhance productivity. Throughout the course, educators will examine ethical considerations, evaluate AI-generated content, and develop strategies for using AI responsibly while maintaining instructional quality and professional oversight.

Throughout the course, participants will examine:

• Foundational concepts of artificial intelligence in education

• Practical applications of AI for instructional planning and resource development

• Effective prompt writing for educational tasks

• Using AI to create classroom materials and instructional resources

• Improving communication and professional productivity with AI tools

• Evaluating the strengths and limitations of AI-generated content

• Ethical considerations and responsible AI use in educational settings

• Developing classroom-ready resources using AI-assisted workflows

• Creating implementation plans that support thoughtful AI integration

• Using AI to enhance professional learning while maintaining educator oversight