Course Overview
The landscape of technical communication is rapidly evolving with the advent of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing. These technologies are not only changing the way we interact with data and systems but are also reshaping the expectations on technical writers. Students will learn and apply the foundations of AI Prompt Engineering for technical writing largely through hands-on practice using a Large Language Model such as ChatGPT. There is a growing need for writers who not only understand the art of communication but also have a foundational understanding of how to employ AI tools, particularly as this can help automate certain aspects of technical writing such as data collection, basic analysis, and even some aspects of content generation. This frees up time for the writer to focus on more complex tasks. The course focuses on teaching technical writers about the nuances of prompt engineering in Large Language Models in response to a growing industry need for technical writers who can accurately and effectively craft AI-driven prompts and who can work alongside AI teams to optimize the user experience.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
1.5
Domestic fees
$376.11
International fees are typically 3.4 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Define terms such as AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), and explain their implications for technical writing.
- Learn about prompt patterns, inputs and outputs, and create informative, actionable, user-centric prompts.
- Create prompts for common technical writing tasks by learning additional prompt pattern types and their practical applications.
- Research additional AI tools for technical writing, such as useful plug-ins.
- Research emerging trends in AI and technical writing.
- Explain the importance of ethical and legal considerations, accuracy, and principles of inclusivity for professionals using AI and Large Language Models in the workplace.
Effective as of Winter 2024
Related Programs
Using AI for Technical Writing (XCOM 3110) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Computing and Academic Studies
- Technical Communication Essentials
Microcredential Part-time
- Technical Writing
Associate Certificate Part-time
Course Offerings
Fall 2026
Below is one offering of XCOM 3110 for the Fall 2026 term.
CRN 51298
Dates
Sep 11 - Oct 16 Loading
- CRN 51298
- $376.11 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 11 - Oct 16 | N/A | N/A | Online |
Duration
6 weeks
Instructor
TBD
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- COURSE HOURS ARE 100% ONLINE ASYNCHRONOUS: instructor-led but flexible hours with weekly deliverables and a fixed course-end date. On the start date of your class (not before), log into learn.bcit.ca to access your course link. PRIVACY NOTICE: This course is designed to engage in hands-on learning activities using ChatGPT, a chatbot developed by OpenAI. Based on a large language model, ChatGPT enables users to refine and steer a conversation towards a desired length, format, style, level of detail, and language. Please be aware that you will be required to use ChatGPT to complete the course and that if you register for a ChatGPT account, your personal information, such as your name and email address will be collected by Open AI LLC. BCIT recognizes that the required use of this tool may give rise to concerns about personal privacy and therefore it is important that you familiarize yourself with ChatGPT's Terms of Use and ChatGPT's Privacy Policy before you register for this course. For questions about BCIT’s privacy practices, contact Director, Privacy, Information Access and Policy Management at privacy@bcit.ca.
Confirmation
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Status
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.