AI Literacy Days: Explore, create & join the conversation
Mar 31, 2026 — 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Curious about AI? Join our drop-in sessions at the Library and test cutting-edge AI research tools, learn how to use AI effectively in your academic work, and explore the big questions around AI.
Description of the event
During this event, librarians will be on hand throughout to guide, chat, and spark conversation. Swing by anytime between 10:30 and 1:30 to join our activities. No experience or agenda required, just an open mind.
There will be snacks, a welcome station with trivia and prizes, and the following activities:
AI tool testing (10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
Test-drive cutting‑edge AI research tools such as the Scopus and Web of Science AI research assistants, with librarians on hand to guide you. Ask questions, get quick tips, and join small-group conversations about making AI work for your academic life. Swing by anytime - stay for five minutes or an hour!
Drop-in workshop.
Zine-making workshop (10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
Drop in for a hands-on zine‑making workshop that invites you to explore AI from a feelings‑first perspective. Craft, draw, collage, and reflect alongside librarians who’ll spark conversations about how AI fits into your creative and academic life. No experience needed - just curiosity and a willingness to experiment.
Drop-in workshop.
Maha Bali’s cake metaphor (11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)
Drop in for a librarian‑led discussion of Maha Bali’s cake analogy for AI to unpack how and when we choose to use AI - because, just like getting a cake, there’s no one right way, only different trade‑offs. Stay for the discussion, share your take, and leave with a sweeter understanding of how AI fits your academic goals.
Drop-in workshop.
Workshop: AI as your study partner (2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.) - Please register
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Google NotebookLM have real potential as study tools. Join tech educator and best-selling author Avery Swartz in this hands-on workshop, where you'll discover how you can use AI to support your learning: have concepts explained in plain language, build flashcards and quizzes from your course materials, prepare for exams, and review your work before you hand it in.
We'll explore live demos, try things together, and talk honestly about how to use these tools without crossing the line on academic integrity. No matter your starting point, whether you use AI every day or have barely tried it, this workshop will meet you where you are. Bring a laptop or tablet and come ready to experiment. This workshop is offered in English.
If you have any questions, please contact: biblio-ia-ai@uottawa.ca.