Course Overview

Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering workplaces. However, many organizations struggle to adopt it in ways that feel responsible, practical, and aligned with their values. Too often, AI conversations focus on tools and technology rather than people, processes, and purpose.

In response, this course introduces Appreciative Artificial Intelligence (AI²), Illuminate’s human-centered approach to AI adoption. AI² combines principles from Appreciative Inquiry and organizational development with emerging AI capabilities. As a result, organizations can adopt AI in ways that strengthen human judgment, support meaningful work, and advance what already works well.

Rather than treating AI as a technical problem to solve, this course positions AI as a strategic support tool. In practice, participants learn how AI can enhance learning, decision-making, and collaboration when introduced thoughtfully. Throughout the course, participants explore how to identify strengths, surface real needs, and design responsible AI use cases aligned with organizational culture and priorities.

What You Will Learn

Participants will develop a clear, grounded understanding of how to approach AI adoption through a people- and process-first lens. The course focuses on building confidence, shared language, and practical decision-making skills rather than technical expertise. By the end of the course, participants will understand how to frame AI conversations constructively, identify appropriate opportunities for AI support, and design small, realistic AI applications that respect human agency and accountability.

Course Format

This course is delivered in two 3-hour virtual, instructor-led modules (or one day in-person). Participants who complete both modules will receive a certificate of completion.

Module Breakdown

Module 1: Foundations of Appreciative Artificial Intelligence

This module introduces the core concepts behind AI² and establishes a shared foundation for human-centered AI adoption. Participants explore how Appreciative Inquiry reframes AI conversations by focusing on strengths, values, and existing capabilities rather than fear or deficit-based thinking. The session examines common patterns in how organizations currently approach AI and why many adoptions stall or create resistance.

Participants reflect on where AI already shows up in their work, formally or informally, and identify opportunities where AI could support, rather than replace, human judgment. The module also introduces ethical and practical guardrails that help teams make intentional choices about when and how to use AI responsibly.

By the end of the module, participants will have a shared language for discussing AI, greater confidence in engaging in AI-related conversations, and a clearer understanding of how AI can support organizational goals without undermining trust or purpose.

Module 2: Applying AI² to Real Work and Organizational Processes

Building on the foundation established in Module 1, this module focuses on practical application. Participants learn how to translate organizational strengths and real work needs into responsible, low-risk AI use cases. The session emphasizes distinguishing between tasks that benefit from AI support and those that require human judgment, context, and accountability.

Participants work through a structured process to design a small, realistic AI application relevant to their role or organization. The module addresses common concerns related to ethics, bias, transparency, and accountability by grounding these issues in day-to-day decision-making rather than abstract principles. Participants also explore how to create feedback and learning loops, so AI use evolves responsibly over time.

By the end of the module, participants will leave with a concrete next step they can take to advance human-centered AI adoption within their team or organization.

Who Should Attend

• Organizational leaders exploring responsible AI adoption
• Managers and team leaders responsible for process improvement or innovation
• Organizational development and change management professionals
• Learning, strategy, and operations staff supporting internal transformation
• Consultants and advisors supporting organizations navigating AI-related change

Prerequisites

No prior AI or technical background is required. This course is designed for professionals interested in thoughtful, human-centered approaches to AI adoption.