Summer Institute FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
What is the goal of this institute?
The institute supports faculty in developing a clear, course-level approach to AI and preparing materials for use in Fall 2026. Participants will focus on one course and leave with a policy, an aligned assignment or activity, and clear language for communicating expectations to students.
Where appropriate, participants may also develop a brief instructional activity that helps students understand responsible AI use and common limitations.
What is the CSU course and how does it relate to this institute?
The institute includes the CSU course AI Tools for Teaching and Learning for Faculty and Lecturers, a three-week asynchronous course that introduces core concepts, tools, and considerations for teaching with AI.
Participants develop an initial AI course policy through the CSU course and then apply that work to their own course with support from the institute.
Participation and Expectations
Do I need prior experience with AI to participate?
No. This institute is designed for faculty who are new to AI or exploring how it should be addressed in their courses.
I already have experience with AI. Should I still apply?
Yes. Faculty with prior experience are welcome to apply. Priority will be given to those who have not yet participated in AI-focused professional development, and additional participants may be included as space permits.
What will I actually produce?
By the end of the institute, you will have:
• an AI course policy
• a revised assignment, activity, or instructional module
• student-facing language communicating expectations
Where appropriate, you may also develop a short instructional activity to support student understanding of AI use.
How much time will this take?
The total time commitment is approximately 25 hours over the summer, including:
• a three-week CSU asynchronous course (approximately 20 hours)
• a few hours of supported application through working sessions and consultations
What does the Faculty Learning Community involve?
The Faculty Learning Community provides structured time and support to apply what you develop in the CSU course to your own course.
This includes:
• guided working sessions
• optional consultations for individualized feedback
• access to templates, campus resources, and examples
The focus is on developing materials you can use in your Fall 2026 course.
Do I need to redesign my entire course?
No. The focus is on one course and typically one assignment or activity. The goal is to make your approach to AI clear and aligned, not to redesign your entire course.
What if I do not plan to use AI in my teaching?
That is completely fine. The institute supports a range of approaches, including limiting or not using AI. The focus is on making expectations clear and aligned with your learning goals.
Schedule and Timing
When does the institute take place?
You can participate in one of three summer cycles:
Cycle 1: May 26 to June 30
Cycle 2: June 22 to July 31
Cycle 3: July 27 to August 16
Each cycle includes the CSU course followed by a short period of supported application.
What if I choose the later cycle? Will I have enough time?
Yes. Cycle 3 includes a more condensed application period, along with flexible support in August as you finalize materials before the start of the fall semester.
Will there be support after the course ends?
Yes. An optional August session provides time and support to finalize course materials before Fall 2026. Additional support is available as needed.
Application and Selection
Is there a stipend?
Yes. Participants will receive a stipend of $800 upon completion.
How are participants selected?
Because space is limited, priority will be given to faculty who:
• teach General Education, gateway, or other high-enrollment courses
• have not yet participated in AI-focused professional development
How do I apply?
Complete the short application form. It should take only a few minutes to complete.
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions, contact CFETI@sjsu.edu
