Practical AI for Learning and Research

Learn how to use Generative AI effectively and responsibly in everyday academic work. This hands-on bootcamp focuses on practical applications such as solving problems, writing reports, studying challenging concepts, analyzing data, and conducting research.

Participants will also learn how to recognize common GenAI mistakes, understand where AI can save time or support critical thinking, and identify situations where it may produce misleading or unreliable results.

Monday, August 17 – Friday, August 21, 2026

5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

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Each session will be recorded and available online for 30 days, giving participants the flexibility to revisit material or catch up on a session they may have missed.

Bootcamp Overview

  • Length: One week | Monday–Friday | 2 hours per day
  • Cost: FREE for FAU Students, Faculty, and Staff
  • Time: 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
  • Location: Zoom only. You will find the meeting link on the Canvas page after signing up.
  • Instructor: Wayne Cole
  • Email: wcole2024@fau.edu

About the Instructor

Wayne Cole Wayne Cole is a senior IT leader at NextEra Energy, an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University, and a Ph.D. candidate at Florida Atlantic University. His expertise includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, observability, Site Reliability Engineering (SRE), enterprise automation, and project management.

His research focuses on predictive analytics in health care and intelligent transportation systems, with an emphasis on explainable AI, operational resilience, and data-driven decision-making. He is a PMP-, PMI-ACP-, and SAFe-certified technology leader.

Bootcamp Schedule

The bootcamp includes five two-hour modules combining instruction, demonstrations, collaborative exercises, and discussion.

Module 1: Getting Started with AI and Large Language Models (LLMs)

Module 2: Machine Learning Without Coding

Module 3: AI for Research with NotebookLM

Module 4: AI for Website Development

Module 5: AI Across Business and Industry

What You'll Need

  • A computer with internet access
  • Access to a conversational AI platform, such as ChatGPT, Claude, or ChatFAU
  • Access to Discord; participants may use the Discord app or web version
  • A willingness to participate in collaborative, hands-on exercises