AI Fundamentals with Prompt-a-Thon: Microsoft Copilot Chat Edition
Course Duration
1 Day
Audience
Employees of federal, state and local governments; and businesses working with the government.
Prerequisites
No prior AI or technical experience required. Basic computer skills and a Microsoft 365 account are all that is needed.
Course Description
This hands-on course introduces participants to artificial intelligence fundamentals through the lens of Microsoft Copilot Chat. The morning covers AI theory — what AI is, how large language models work, and what makes Copilot intelligent. The afternoon is a Prompt-a-Thon: a rapid-fire, collaborative session where students practice prompting Copilot Chat for real work scenarios. Participants leave with practical prompting skills they can apply immediately. Ideal for federal and corporate teams beginning their Copilot journey.
Learning Objectives
- Define AI and explain how it applies to Microsoft Copilot Chat
- Describe how Copilot Chat integrates with Microsoft 365 and supports productivity
- Apply prompting fundamentals including instruction, context, and examples
- Write effective prompts for drafting, summarizing, and problem-solving tasks
- Recognize limitations of AI tools including hallucinations and bias
- Use Copilot Chat safely within Microsoft 365 data governance boundaries
- Complete a Prompt-a-Thon — rapid scenario-based prompting exercises across job functions
Course Outline
Welcome and Overview
- Introductions and learning goals
- Overview of the day
Introduction to AI Concepts
- What is AI?
- Key terminology: models, prompts, hallucinations, bias
- Everyday examples of AI in action
Understanding Microsoft Copilot Chat
- How Copilot Chat works in Microsoft 365
- Work-grounded vs. web-grounded prompts
- Data security and responsible use
Prompting Fundamentals
- Anatomy of an effective prompt
- Instruction, context, examples, and constraints
Prompt-a-Thon
- Scenario-based prompting exercises
- Group challenges and team prompting
- Debriefs and best prompt sharing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Prompt-a-Thon?
A Prompt-a-Thon is an interactive, fast-paced session where participants practice writing and refining prompts for real scenarios — often in small teams competing or collaborating to get the best results from Copilot. It is a highly engaging way to build prompting skills through doing rather than just watching demonstrations.
Do participants need a Copilot license?
Participants should have access to Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat during the afternoon session. A paid Copilot license unlocks work-grounded features, but the free version of Copilot Chat is sufficient for most of the Prompt-a-Thon exercises. Contact IT Dojo for lab guidance.
Is this course available as live remote online or on-site?
Yes. IT Dojo delivers this course live remote online or on-site. The Prompt-a-Thon works especially well on-site with teams. Contact IT Dojo to schedule for your agency or organization.