Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is rapidly becoming part of everyday life, from writing emails and creating images to assisting with study, business tasks and creative projects. To help the community navigate this fast-changing landscape with confidence, Southern Cross University has designed and will facilitate a practical, hands-on workshop in partnership with Richmond Tweed Regional Library.

Understanding Generative Artificial Intelligence is a 90-minute session aimed at demystifying AI and giving participants practical skills they can immediately apply in daily life.

The workshop will explore what GenAI is (and what it isn’t), how it is already being used in everyday contexts, and how people can use it safely, ethically and effectively. Participants will see demonstrations of how AI tools can assist with life management, writing, brainstorming, creative projects, study support, job applications and business content creation.

Importantly, the session will also tackle the big questions many people are asking:

• How do you write effective prompts?
• Who pays for AI tools? Are any free?
• What can it be used for?
• How can you frame questions to get reliable answers?

The first half of the session will provide a clear, accessible introduction and live demonstrations. The second half will be hands-on, giving participants the opportunity to experiment with AI tools themselves in a supportive environment. Guided activities and small group discussions will help attendees build confidence, regardless of whether they are complete beginners or already experimenting with AI.

There will also be time to discuss privacy, safety, bias and misinformation, equipping participants with practical strategies to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly.

Two sessions are available to accommodate different schedules:

• Thursday 26 March, 5:15pm–6:45pm
• Thursday 2 April, 10:00am–11:30am

The workshop is suitable for adults of all experience levels, from those who are simply curious to those already using AI who want to deepen their understanding and refine their skills.

Participants are encouraged to bring a phone, tablet or laptop for the interactive component. Tablets will be available for those unable to bring a device.

By combining expert facilitation from Southern Cross University with the community focus of Richmond Tweed Regional Library, the workshop aims to provide balanced, practical and trustworthy guidance on one of today’s most talked-about technologies.

For more information or to register, use the Richmond Tweed Regional Library website, or contact the Lismore Library on (02) 6621 2464.