Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just a futuristic idea—it’s already part of everyday life.

If you’ve ever seen a movie recommendation on Netflix, a product suggestion on Amazon, or used voice assistants like Siri or Alexa, you’ve interacted with AI. It’s been quietly working behind the scenes for decades to help us sort information, make decisions, and personalize our digital experiences.

But now, AI is becoming more visible—and more powerful — especially with tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, which can understand and generate human-like text. These tools are powered by what’s called a large language model, or LLM. As they become more common in schools, offices, and homes, it’s important to understand what they are and how to use them wisely and effectively.

What is a LLM

A large language model is a type of computer program trained to read, understand, and generate human language. It learns by analyzing enormous amounts of text from books, websites, articles, and other sources. When you ask a question or make a request, the model uses patterns it has learned to predict a useful response.

While it doesn’t “know” or “think” like a human, it’s very good at using language to help with tasks such as writing emails, summaries, or reports; answering questions and explaining concepts; generating ideas for events, lessons, or marketing; and translating or simplifying text for different audiences.

This makes it a useful tool for educators, small businesses, nonprofits, community programs, and individuals looking to save time and work more efficiently.

AI already in use

AI might sound intimidating, but it’s not new — and it’s not out to replace human thinking. Think of it like a smart assistant that follows instructions.

If you’ve ever used autocorrect or predictive text on your phone, online shopping suggestions, streaming service recommendations, or GPS apps that reroute you around traffic, then you’ve already experienced AI in action. These tools rely on algorithms — rules and patterns AI uses to make helpful predictions based on your behavior and preferences. Large language models are simply a more advanced version of this kind of technology.

Tips for talking to AI

When using tools like ChatGPT, the message you type in is called a prompt. The clearer and more specific your prompt, the better the results.

Here are five helpful prompting tips:

1. Be clear and specific.

Avoid vague questions like “Tell me about gardening.” Instead, ask: “What vegetables grow well in raised beds in North Carolina?”

2. Give some context.

Let the AI know who it’s for. For example: “Write a paragraph about soil health for high school students.”

3. Break it into steps.

If you need help with a big task, guide the AI step by step: “First, give me ideas for a 4-H workshop. Next, help me write a flyer.”

4. Share an example.

If you want a certain tone or style, include a sample: “Write a social media post like this: ‘Join us Saturday for a hands-on canning class!’”

5. Don’t be afraid to revise.

If the answer isn’t quite right, adjust your prompt or ask the AI to try again. It often takes a few tries to get what you want.

Use AI as a tool, not a replacement

While language models are powerful, they aren’t perfect. They can get facts wrong or provide outdated or biased information. Always double-check anything related to health, legal, or financial matters. Use AI as a helpful assistant—not a final authority.

Just like a calculator helps with math or a spreadsheet helps with budgeting, AI tools can assist with writing, research, and planning. They’re here to support your work, not replace it.

Digital literacy for a new era

NC Cooperative Extension believes digital literacy means more than just using a computer — it’s about understanding and engaging with the tools shaping our world. Whether you’re a farmer exploring new technology, a retiree learning to navigate online tools, or a teacher preparing students for the future, AI literacy is a skill worth building.

By becoming more comfortable with tools like large language models, we can reduce fear, increase confidence, and use technology to strengthen our communities.

AI education for all

“As Bertie County’s NC Digital Futures Agent, I’ve had the privilege of helping our community better understand and use emerging technology — especially artificial intelligence (AI),” said Rebecca Jinnette. “Whether I’m teaching a class, giving a lecture, or working one-on-one, I focus on practical AI prompting skills that empower people to write, research, communicate, and protect themselves in a fast-changing world.

Upcoming AI events in Bertie County are as follows:

“AI & Disinformation” at the Bertie Scam Jam & Shred-a-Thon from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 30.

Summer AI Class Series for Seniors from 1-2:30 p.m. on June 4, June 18, June 25, and July 9 at the Bertie County Council on Aging in Windsor. These sessions will include hands-on activities, live demos, and practical take-home skills for anyone curious about using AI tools safely and confidently.

To register, call the Bertie County Council on Aging at 252-794-5315.

To learn more, contact Jinnette at 252-794-6170 or rjinnet@ncsu.edu.