Courses |

Artificial intelligence

Work smarter with AI

Does using generative AI for work tasks like writing weaken our ability to think critically? Several recent studies suggest that over-relying on AI tools can erode the very skills our organizations depend on to create impact. The real challenge is that too much cognitive offloading can dull our edge when we don’t develop the skill with intention about how and when to use it to save time or improve capabilities.

For nonprofit leaders already stretched thin, automation that reduces steps can feel like a lifeline and it can be. But saving time should be the beginning, not the end goal. The most impactful AI use strengthens our thinking, enhances our skills, and expands what we’re capable of doing. 

This course blends cognitive science, practical AI augmentation prompting techniques, and nonprofit examples to help you and your team develop one of the most essential skills for the AI era: the art and science of effective human-AI collaboration for the best results.

Learning objectives

Opportunity analysis

Learn the art and science of effective human-AI collaboration of knowing when to use your brain vs. when to turn to AI to augment it or save time.

Strategic implementation

Understand the research on AI dependence and its impact on core workplace cognitive skills. Learn how to identify healthy vs. unhealthy cognitive offloading.

Prompting techniques

Develop practical cognitive and prompting techniques to use AI for skill-building, learning, strategic analysis, creative problem-solving, and amplifying your organization’s impact.

Curriculum outline

• Understanding human–AI collaboration
• The time dividend: Reinvesting AI-saved time for greater impact
• Cognitive offloading: Healthy vs. unhealthy habits and emerging research
• Becoming a driver, not a passenger: Intentional, human-first AI use
• Cognitive & technical strategies for thinking with AI
• Creating your AI intentional use code for everyday practice

Anticipated time to complete

NTEN courses typically require about 60 minutes of video content to complete, while optional content varies by course.