Unique Initiative Offers Free Course From USP for Students and Teachers Who Want to Master Artificial Intelligence, Prompt Engineering and Tools Like ChatGPT and Gemini, With Certification and Limited Spots.
The USP has launched the course “AI is On: Prompts and Good Practices for Generative AI”, completely free and taught online, aimed at humanities students and public school teachers.
With four live meetings via Google Meet, the program aims to train 150 participants in the critical and efficient use of large language models, such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini.
The initiative is organized by the Faculty of Philosophy, Languages and Human Sciences (FFLCH) at USP in partnership with the Experimental Group in Computational Semiotics (SemioCom), participants of the SemioTalks program.
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The proposal seeks to introduce and deepen knowledge in prompt engineering, discuss ethical and social implications of AI, and guide participants in the practical application of these concepts through a final project.
Structure of the Generative AI Course at USP
With a total workload of eight hours, the course is divided into four synchronous sessions of two hours each, taking place from July 28 to 31, 2025, always from 6 PM to 8 PM.
The class dynamics involve theoretical presentations, live demonstrations, and activities focused on the use of LLMs in research, text production, and teaching contexts.
The syllabus includes the following modules:
- Introduction to Generative AI and Prompt Fundamentals: definition of LLMs, history, and first practices for crafting commands that yield precise results.
- Initial Prompt Engineering Techniques: structuring clear instructions, refining questions, and maximizing quality in responses.
- Advanced Approaches, Ethics, and Real Applications: discussion on biases, professional use of AI, and participation of experts to exemplify practices.
- Project Implementation, Ethical Reviews, and Future Trends: development of a final practical project, result evaluation, and reflection on the impacts of AI on society.
Teaching Staff and Innovative Methodology
To lead the modules, the coordination is under the responsibility of Professor Waldir Beividas, associate professor in the Department of Linguistics at USP, with support from teachers Sarah Uska Jorge Colchin, Túlio Ferreira Leite da Silva and monitor Ludmila Machado Nascimento.
The course is supported by the Commission of Culture and Extension and the Pro-Rectory of Culture and Extension at USP.
The use of digital tools, such as ChatGPT and Gemini, will be present from the beginning of the activities until the completion of the project.
Participants will also have access to support materials, including articles, presentation slides, and guides on good practices in prompt engineering.
Certification and Requirements for Participants
To receive the certificate, a minimum attendance of 75% in the meetings is required.
The certification will be automatically issued at the end of the classes and sent via email.
Any withdrawals after enrollment must be communicated by email to the responsible secretary (agenda@usp.br).
In case of technical questions or difficulty accessing the Apolo platform, support should be requested via apolo@usp.br.
Important Dates and Registration Process
Enrollment takes place exclusively through the USP Apolo system and is open from July 17 to 24, 2025.
After the enrollment period, candidates will be selected by electronic drawing, and the results will be announced on July 25, 2025.
Only those who enroll on time will be able to participate — there is no waiting list.
Free AI Course USP: Democratization of Knowledge
The initiative reinforces USP’s commitment to the democratization of knowledge in artificial intelligence, especially aimed at areas traditionally less covered by technology.
In the end, students will be equipped to use generative AI in a conscious, effective, and critical manner.
How to Register for the Free AI Course at USP
To secure your spot, access the USP Apolo system between July 17 and 24, 2025, fill out the registration form, and wait for the drawing on the 25th. Good luck!

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