Generative AI (GenAI) tools are rapidly transforming higher education and professional workflows, but adoption can be hindered by lack of awareness, skepticism, or uncertainty about practical applications. When Life Gives You LLMs, Make LLMonade is an innovative, 10-day microlearning initiative designed by the School of Public Health Instructional Services team to introduce faculty, staff, and students to GenAI in an accessible, hands-on way. Through daily activities, practical use cases, and gamification elements (points, badges, accolades), participants explored AI’s potential for enhancing productivity across tasks like research, coding, presentations, and document management.
Participants engaged not only through the U-M Slack environment but also experimented with university-supported tools such as um-gpt and Maizey, along with other GenAI technologies. These platforms allowed them to apply AI directly to real-world scenarios, fostering a collaborative learning space that extended beyond the event. Key outcomes included increased AI literacy, greater confidence in using AI tools, and practical insights for applying GenAI across various roles and tasks.
The LLMonade project exemplifies how targeted, low-barrier training can drive innovation by empowering the U-M community to integrate GenAI into their workflows effectively. This presentation will share lessons learned, participant feedback, and best practices for designing engaging microlearning programs that build new competencies and promote cross-campus collaboration.