NC.BCSK-004 - AI: Critical Evaluation Skills - Chloe McGinley

Introduction

Welcome to our 2 week online course on the responsible and ethical use of generative AI. I am excited to learn with you and support you as we explore how AI tools can be used thoughtfully, safely, and effectively in academic and personal contexts.

By the end of this course, you will feel more confident evaluating AI-generated content, identifying common risks, and making informed decisions about how to use AI responsibly.

Course Description

In this course, we will examine key ethical considerations related to generative AI, including bias, privacy, and copyright. You will also explore practical strategies that promote transparency, accountability, and responsible use of AI tools.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Identify potential biases in AI-generated content
• Properly cite and credit AI tools to avoid plagiarism
• Understand how AI systems collect and handle personal data
• Apply best practices for protecting your privacy
• Recognize foundational copyright and intellectual property considerations
• Use AI responsibly in academic, professional, and personal contexts

What to Expect in this Course

This is a 2 week, fully online course, and all materials are provided in Canvas. Each week includes readings, videos, guided activities, online discussions, and opportunities to build your own AI Toolkit.

Each week, you will find:

• Readings, videos, and AI tools to explore
• An online discussion to interact with your classmates
• An assignment such as a brief quiz or a written reflection
• Weekly announcements and reminders
• Feedback on your completed work

Weekly Breakdown

Week 1: Introduction to Generative AI & Ethical Foundations

You will begin by introducing yourself in an online discussion.
(Be sure to complete your first discussion post by Tuesday to avoid being dropped from the course.)

By the end of Week 1, you will be able to:

1. Define generative AI and explain its use in academic and everyday contexts
2. Identify and discuss ethical considerations related to AI
3. Recognize and analyze potential biases in AI outputs

Week 2: Privacy, Copyright, and Responsible Use

This week focuses on data privacy, personal information, and how AI tools handle user data. You will also learn about key copyright and intellectual property issues, including:

1. What content is protected by copyright
2. Current debates around AI-generated content
3. How to credit and use AI-assisted work properly
4. Who owns AI‑generated content
5. Best practices for using AI while respecting IP rights

We end the week with practical strategies for evaluating AI outputs responsibly.

Time Commitment & Participation

Plan to spend 4 to 6 hours per week on this course.
Your participation includes:

• Logging into Canvas at least twice per week
• Posting your initial discussion reply by Wednesday
• Posting replies to classmates by Sunday

Regular participation is essential for success.

Types of Assessments

Assignments in this course are graded complete/incomplete and include clear rubrics so you know exactly what is expected.

Assessments include:

• Online discussions
• Short quizzes
• Written reflections
• Small application activities

I will provide feedback on all your submitted work. Submitting your work on time will ensure that you have enough time in the course to revise and resubmit your work if needed.  

My goal is to help you build confidence, understanding, and skills in using AI tools responsibly. Please reach out if you feel stuck or have questions. I am here to support you! 

Textbook Information

This course uses Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) materials. All required readings and resources are provided for free inside Canvas.

No purchases are required.
You can access the course using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Other Relevant Course Information

I will post announcements throughout the course to help you stay on track, highlight important updates, and offer general guidance. You will also receive individual feedback on your assignments to support your learning.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email me anytime at:
chloe.mcginley@canyons.edu

I look forward to learning with you and supporting you throughout this course!

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 01/26/2026 Sub#: 1853