Courses / Faculty of Sciences and Technology

Training Course: The Writing Machine: Language Models and Artificial Intelligence

General Objectives of the Course

The course aims to offer a clear and accessible introduction to the world of Large Language Models (LLMs), one of the most transformative areas of contemporary Artificial Intelligence (AI). In a simple and practical way, it will explore the principles that enable these technologies to understand and generate human language, explaining how they “learn” and interact with us. The course will present the core ideas behind how LLMs work and their multiple real-world applications, such as in education, communication, and the arts. Participants will have the opportunity to directly experiment with AI-based tools such as ChatGPT and other platforms, learning how to craft effective prompts and critically evaluate the responses they obtain, without any prior programming skills. In addition, the course will address the ethical, social, and professional implications of using language models, including topics such as bias, privacy, authorship, and the impact on human work, encouraging informed reflection on the role of generative AI in contemporary society.

Admission Requirements

Young people and adults who have a degree or are currently attending a degree course in non-STEAM areas.

Candidates should check the admission requirements available on this site, in addition to the information provided here.

Mode of Study

E-learning

Teaching / Evaluation language(s)

Portuguese

Examination Regulations, Assessment and Grading

To pass the course, students must attend at least two-thirds of the lecture sessions and submit an individual practical assignment.

Qualitative Evaluation in a scale of: Pass or fail. Passing the course requires attendance at least two-thirds of the theoretical–practical classes and the submission and defense of a practical assignment with a positive evaluation.

Learning Objectives and Intended Skills

Students will be able to understand how Large Language Models (LLMs) work. They will learn to use AI-based tools for practical and creative purposes, applying prompting techniques and critically evaluating the generated responses. Students will also learn to recognize the opportunities and limitations of these technologies, adopting an ethical and informed perspective on issues such as bias, privacy, authorship, and social impact. By the end of the course, participants will be prepared to integrate the responsible use of AI into their professional, academic, or personal practices, while critically assessing the benefits and risks associated with these technologies.

Qualification Requirements and Regulations

Academic Regulation of the University of Coimbra

Study Programme

The Writing Machine: Language Models and Artificial Intelligence

Academic year
2025-2026

Course Type
Non Degree Course

Qualification Awarded: Diploma/Certificate

Duration: 1 Trimester(s)

ECTS Credits: 3.0