Abstract: Generative AI (GenAI) is increasingly essential in the professional workplace, making it crucial to equip students with the necessary GenAI skills. In information systems (IS) education, students often find themselves in a unique position: they may possess a solid knowledge of technology but tend to lack the deep programming expertise of computer science and engineering majors. To address this gap, we developed a series of labs designed to introduce IS undergraduate students to hands-on generative AI development. The labs aim to familiarize students with OpenAI API, teach students to create programs leveraging the API for tasks such text generation, image generation, and transcription, guide students in practicing prompt engineering techniques, and enable students to build web applications powered by OpenAI APIs. We implemented these labs in an upper-level undergraduate IS elective course in 2024 with 93 students. Students reported increased confidence in creating generative AI powered applications and a deeper understanding of the limitations of current models. This teaching tip explores the feasibility and adoption strategies for other instructors interested in incorporating the labs into their courses.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Generative AI, Generative AI in teaching, Hands-on project

Download This Article: JISE2026v37n1pp1-17.pdf

Recommended Citation: Chan, Y. K., Lai, E., & Chen, Y. (2026). Teaching Tip: Teaching Undergraduate IS Students Hands-on Generative AI Development Skills. Journal of Information Systems Education, 37(1), 1-17. https://doi.org/10.62273/HPDA8033