Overview: This virtual workshop will provide critical Generative AI literacy skills for geography and social studies educators through short presentations combined with structured activities, including a breakout session on GenAI error identification, and educator-led scenario discussions. Participants will learn to differentiate between AI and GenAI, gain a basic understanding of their construction and function, and learn how to evaluate GenAI outputs through geographic and social studies educational contexts. No prior AI experience is required. In-service and pre-service K-16 educators from geography, social studies, and related disciplines are welcome.

Facilitator: Samantha Serrano (Geography and Civics teacher at James B. Conant High School)

Registration: Please register online by Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Space is limited. (Note: Please check that your email address is correct when completing the online registration form. A registration confirmation will be emailed to you immediately after you successfully submit your online registration form. In addition, you will receive the workshop Zoom link by email one day prior to the workshop.)

Stipend: $50 (Note: This stipend is only available to IGA members that are residents of Illinois. To become a member of the IGA, simply fill out our membership form. There is no cost to become a member.)

PD Hours: 3.25 (Note: PD hours, formerly referred to as CPDUs, are only available to IGA members that teach in Illinois, provide a valid Illinois Educator Identification Number – IEIN, and participate in the entire workshop. To become a member of the IGA, simply fill out our membership form. There is no cost to become a member.)

Questions: Please email the Illinois Geographic Alliance, LLC at iga@illinoisstate.edu.