Artificial Intelligence Course

Our EXPAND AI Design Team is excited to introduce a new EXPAND offering focused on one of the most timely and transformative areas in our field: the use of artificial intelligence to elevate Extension programming. This new virtual cohort will be available for all Cooperative Extension employees and will bring together educators and programmatic staff who are ready to explore how AI can meaningfully—and responsibly—enhance their work.

The course will be led by educators and faculty from within the field of Extension who encompass both a scholarly background in Articifical Intelligence – focused literature and also have practical experience leading and applying AI in the field.

Course Objectives

Describe the core principles of artificial intelligence and its relevance to Extension programming and operations.

Identify opportunities to integrate AI tools into existing programs in responsible and ethical ways.

Evaluate AI tools for accuracy, inclusivity, and alignment with Extension’s public mission.

Experience and practice integrating AI tools into teaching and training to enhance learning and engagement.

Apply AI tools through an Action Learning Project (ALP), demonstrating how AI can increase efficiency, creativity, or reach within a current Extension effort.

Build connections and confidence through shared learning, reflection, and experimentation in a supportive virtual cohort.

Cohort Design

Entirely virtual, blending synchronous workshops with asynchronous exploration

Interactive demonstrations and guided tool practice

Peer feedback built into virtual programmatic sessions

Signature EXPAND elements—application in real time, cross-organizational connection, and creative knowledge-sharing

Who Should Attend

Field, regional, and state-based Extension professionals are invited to attend. Participants must have a desire to build their skills to be more effective using AI tools while simultaneously holding a willingness to share their existing knowledge and expertise with their colleagues. Participants will be expected to apply their learning and acquired skills/techniques in real time and reflect on their successes and continued opportunities for growth with their peers.

Schedule

This program will be an entirely virtual learning experience. We anticipate offering this course Mid-August through September 2026

Cost

The program costs $200 per participant, which covers the following:

Instruction

Handouts

Resources

Click HERE to express interest in the program
and receive more information as it becomes available.

Questions?

Matt Hanson, Project Manager–EXPAND, matt.hanson@wisc.edu
Amber Shanahan, Director, Organizational Learning & Professional Development Specialist, amber.shanahan@wisc.edu