AI for Environmental Data Science
Master of Environmental Data Science (MEDS)
Image source: NCEAS
Description
The MEDS AI for Environmental Data Science Workshop Series aims to guide students on using generative AI tools thoughtfully and professionally, without replacing the core skills needed to succeed as an environmental data scientist. Workshops are scaffolded across the program, with an early emphasis on building core competencies, then guided AI use as skills develop.
Students will learn to engage with AI in ways that are critical, responsible, and efficient. The goal is to prepare students to navigate AI use confidently across coursework, job interviews, and professional settings.
Workshop Materials
| Quarter | Slides | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Teach Me How to Google | The case for debugging & search skills in the age of AI + tips on how to do so effectively |
| Fall | AI for EDS: Intro to LLMs & Using AI to Study | An introduction to large language models (LLMs), their environmental and ethical considerations, and how to use AI for studying. |
| Fall | AI for EDS: Prompting Fundamentals | A guide to prompting fundamentals and writing effective prompts. |
Contributors
These workshop materials were developed by Carmen Galaz García (Bren Teaching Faculty), Kat Le (Technical Applications Manager), Sam Shanny-Csik (Data Science Programs Manager & Lecturer), and Annie Adams (Lecturer). We draw on materials and approaches from a variety of sources, leaning heavily on discussions with other Bren Faculty and education efforts by folks at NCEAS and the UCSB Office of Teaching and Learning.