The University of Tampa is adding a focus on generative artificial intelligence (AI) to its required Digital Literacy course this academic year, teaching students when and how to use AI tools in academic and professional work.
According to an Aug. 27 news release from the university, the online course will use a “notice, test, verify, explain, and defend” framework. Students will explore AI tools and large language models, test their capabilities, and explain when their use is appropriate.
The course is part of UTampa’s Spartan Studies general education program. More than half of the 20-plus sections offered this fall will be taught by faculty from across the university’s colleges, allowing students to connect assignments with their majors and career interests.
The revised curriculum was shaped in part by student focus groups held earlier this year.
“Students recognize AI as a tool they need to understand. They want guidance on how to use it the right way, when not to use it, and how to make decisions about it,” said Jessica O’Brien, coordinator of Spartan Studies online learning and digital literacy.
The course will address academic honesty and prompt engineering, but university officials said its broader emphasis will be on judgment, accountability, and ethics.
Students will examine ethical questions throughout the course, including real-world case studies involving Netflix and TikTok. The course will conclude with a “judgment portfolio” that asks students to reflect on what they learned and develop informed views about AI.
“The ethical reasoning and societal impact are important because we want to make sure that as part of a liberal arts education, we’re teaching skills that develop critical thinking and help students be good citizens of the world,” said Cheri Etling-Paulsen, associate dean for UTampa’s Center for Teaching and Learning.
O’Brien said students should still follow individual faculty AI policies and assignment requirements.
“If it’s not clear, ask,” O’Brien said.
