The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has become part of everyday academic life and raises questions about both its scientifically correct use and its potential for changing academic careers.
This module explores the process of creating a scientific paper using various AI tools. This allows students to examine AI-relevant aspects of “good scientific practice” and, at the same time, practice the appropriate and targeted use of AI systems in academic studies and research.
About the course
Content
This course structure is designed to emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application of AI tools in academia. The following topics will be covered:
- Introduction to AI in Academia
- Ethical Considerations
- Writing Enhancement Tools
- AI in Literature Review
- Research and Data Management
- Collaboration and Communication
- Computational Tools for Analysis
- Practical Application and Case Studies
Learning outcomes
After successful completion, participants will be able to:
- explain what AI is, what technical requirements must be met, and
- what it can be used for;
- select a suitable AI for a specific application;
- evaluate the quality and accuracy of AI-generated results;
- use AI tools and revise their use in a goal-oriented manner;
- assess the scope of the given framework for a selected AI, such as data protection, finances, resources, training data, ethics, and other aspects;
- examine the copyright relevance of AI inputs and outputs; and
- assess their suitability for “good scientific practice”
Teaching format
Series of online lectures
Extra information on the teaching methods:
- one 90-minute (synchronous) seminar session per week
- synchronous group work activities (self-regulating groups)
- self-study activities
Programme
Key aspects of using AI tools in academia are to enhance productivity, improve writing quality, efficiency and accuracy, better and clear organization of data, improve learning aid and foster a better understanding of academic content.
Assessment
Form of assessment: Written (AI assisted) term paper and documentation of AI use
Timing for assessment: Seminar Paper submission February 5, 2026 and oral examination February, 12 2026
Further requirements for assessment: Regular attendance and active involvement, preparation of term paper using AI tools, documentation of use of AI tools
Participants demonstrate their acquired skills by completing a seminar paper, which uses AI tools throughout the entire process, from topic selection to completion. The use of the tools is documented and reflected upon. The documentation and oral exam serve as the basis for assessment.
Lecturers
Aisha Aamir
Course dates
Academic Year: 2025/26
Course schedule:
- one 90-minute synchronous online session per week: Thursday from 10:15 to 11:45 (CET) from October 30, 2025 to February 12, 2026
- teaching and learning material available on Moodle
How to register?
! Before application: Please check with your home faculty / programme if the course can be integrated in your curriculum in order to ensure recognition of the credits / ECTS obtained !
Entry requirements: Good command of English. Some experience in writing term papers.
Selection of course participants will be based on entry requirements and available course capacities. Selection will refer to a “first come first serve” principle across partner universities, i.e. the first applications from each university will be selected to increase diversity in the course.
Transcript of Records will be available to students between February 23 and February 27, 2026.
Students from all ENLIGHT partner universities are eligible to participate. Students who meet the requirements mentioned above can apply directly: [application link will follow soon].
The host university will select the permitted number of students, inform the students as soon as possible following the application deadline (30th September 2025).
Unsuccessful students will be placed on a waiting list and may get a place in case of drop outs at a later stage.