Microsoft and UTA Celebrate Successful Generative AI Prompt-A-Thon

UTA’s Office of Information Technology, Office of Research and Innovation, and Microsoft recently concluded the state’s first Generative AI Prompt-A-Thon hosted on a higher education campus. The event, held on May 29, 2024, brought together faculty and staff from across the DFW Metroplex to explore the exciting world of generative AI. 

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration 

The Generative AI Prompt-A-Thon was filled with insightful sessions, hands-on workshops and collaborative discussions. Attendees heard from key leaders, like Microsoft Education’s Chief Innovation Office MJ Jabbour, on how to create effective prompts, experiment with AI models and understand the impact of descriptive instructions on AI-generated content. The event aimed to promote AI literacy and empower participants to harness the potential of generative AI. 

“These events are the most impactful ways to bring communities together to raise awareness and adoption,” said Tony Prince, Microsoft’s General Manager. “Our goal is for attendees to have a higher understanding of AI than they did before and have a deeper appreciation of how it’s going to impact their work on a daily basis.” 

Participants engaged in interactive breakout sessions, collaborating with experts and exploring practical applications of generative AI. 

The sessions featured prompts related to education, research and operations. Teams were tasked with supporting a hypothetical oceanography institute, making lunch and learn sessions more engaging and developing a grant proposal. 

From creative writing to image generation, attendees had the opportunity to experiment with various AI tools and learn from industry leaders. They gathered real-time feedback from Microsoft and various subject matter experts to improve their prompting tactics to produce better outcomes from Copilot. 

UTA’s Commitment to AI Education 

As the first higher education institution in Texas to host a Generative AI Prompt-A-Thon, UTA reaffirms its commitment to advancing AI education. The university recognizes the importance of equipping its community with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world. 

UTA plans to continue fostering innovation through similar events, ensuring that students and faculty stay at the forefront of AI advancements. Microsoft remains committed to supporting educational institutions in their AI journey, and the success of the Generative AI Prompt-A-Thon is a testament to this collaboration. 

For more information about UTA’s initiatives and upcoming events, visit UTA’s AI website. 

Ashley Green • 2024-May-31