Artificial Intelligence 101: An Introduction to ChatGPT

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way we work—and ChatGPT is one of the most accessible and powerful tools available today. This practical, plain-language workshop is designed for those who are new to ChatGPT or have only limited hands-on experience and want a clear, supportive introduction without technical jargon.

In this session, we will explore how ChatGPT can be used as a reliable, everyday tool to support professional work and problem-solving. Participants will learn how to use ChatGPT to draft correspondence, organize information, generate ideas, and work more efficiently across a range of common business tasks.

The workshop provides a clear overview of how ChatGPT works, how conversations are stored and managed, and how different AI tools are structured. We will explain the practical differences between chats, custom GPTs, projects, agents, and assistants, with an emphasis on understanding information flow and using outputs effectively—without unnecessary complexity.

Best practices for privacy, confidentiality, and responsible use will be covered, including how to safeguard proprietary and sensitive information. By the end of the session, participants will have a realistic understanding of what ChatGPT can—and cannot—do, along with practical strategies for using it safely, ethically, and confidently.

No prior technical background is required. Questions are encouraged, and examples and exercises are designed for those early in their ChatGPT including those who have never used ChatGPT, dabblers, and occasional users.

Please bring a laptop. Near the end of the workshop, the facilitator will walk through account setup and privacy settings so you leave ready to use ChatGPT right away.

Note: This workshop focuses exclusively on OpenAI’s ChatGPT and does not cover other AI platforms such as Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, or Anthropic Claude.

This informative workshop is offered at no cost and is being sponsored in partnership with the North Shore Alliance for Economic Development and the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD).