Non-academic AI prompts to build confidence and experience

The conversation around generative AI in higher education often fixates on concerns about academic integrity and plagiarism. While these are important considerations, this narrow focus can prevent academics from exploring the tool’s broader potential for supporting student success and well-being. To bridge this gap, it’s beneficial to engage with the technology in a more relaxed, non-academic context.

Building confidence with AI

One effective way to build confidence with generative AI is to experiment with everyday, practical prompts that support the non-academic aspects of university life. To that end, I’ve been recommending a simple exercise: use the AI for everyday, non-academic tasks. This activity helps shift the focus from academic concerns like plagiarism and assessment integrity to understanding the AI’s conversational nature.

Non-academic AI prompts

Here are some examples of non-academic prompts that can be used to explore the potential of generative AI:

  • Student wellness planning. “Suggest a weekly exercise routine for a university student with limited time, space, and budget. Focus on maintaining fitness without gym equipment or specialist knowledge.”
  • Practical life skills. “Create a basic shopping list and meal plan for a student learning to cook vegetarian meals. Consider budget constraints and minimal cooking experience.”
  • Time management support. “Provide essential housekeeping tips and a weekly schedule for a first-year student living independently. Emphasize efficiency and building sustainable habits.”
  • Stress management routines. “Help me create a 10-minute morning routine that can help manage anxiety during exam periods. I need something simple that I can do in my room without special equipment or meditation experience.”
  • Personal space organisation. “I have a small workspace in my student accommodation. Can you suggest ways to organise it efficiently for both studying and relaxation? Consider limited storage space and a tight budget.”

These examples serve multiple purposes:

  • They help you develop comfort with prompt crafting
  • They demonstrate AI’s potential for supporting student wellbeing
  • They build confidence in exploring AI’s capabilities beyond academic tasks

By starting with these practical applications, we can begin to see generative AI not just as an academic tool, but as a resource for supporting the broader student experience. This perspective opens up new possibilities for using AI to enhance student engagement while sidestepping immediate concerns about academic integrity.

The key is to start small, experiment freely, and focus on areas where AI can genuinely add value to the student experience. What other everyday challenges could you address with AI support?


Ready to keep building your confidence with AI? Sign up for the Generative AI for Academics course and move from simple prompts to more focused academic applications, all while maintaining a thoughtful, ethical approach.


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