Getting Started with Google Gemini & NotebookLM

This introductory session opens the door to using Google Gemini -- Google's generative AI tool -- and its powerful integration with NotebookLM, a personalized research assistant. Participants will engage with Gemini to generate summaries, spark ideas, and respond to questions using real-world examples.

When accessed through a Stanford account, Gemini is approved for use with Stanford data, including low-risk and moderate-risk data. NotebookLM takes things a step further, providing context-aware answers and output based on your own uploaded materials, such as PDFs and notes.

While the Stanford free version of Gemini does not connect directly to Google Docs or Sheets, participants can still bring that content into their workflow by copying text into Gemini, exporting files as PDFs for use in NotebookLM, or using Gemini to generate content they then bring back into Google Workspace tools. With both tools, participants can shift from information overload to actionable clarity -- ideal for academic, administrative, or professional workflows.

The session offers a structured exploration of Gemini's features, its place in the AI landscape, and its advantages for users who already work within the Google ecosystem. It also highlights common pitfalls and ethical considerations in using AI tools for productivity and decision-making.

Course Objectives
By the end of the session, participants will have the opportunity to:
1. Identify key features of Google Gemini and NotebookLM
2. Compare Gemini's strengths to other AI assistants
3. Demonstrate Gemini's functionality through practical prompts
4. Analyze how NotebookLM generates insights from user-provided content
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of Gemini and NotebookLM for various tasks
6. Construct AI-generated summaries, guides, and content drafts using personal or course materials

Course Topics
1. Overview of Google Gemini
  - Core capabilities and ideal use cases
  - Comparison with other AI platforms
2. Using Gemini in Context
  - Prompting strategies
  - Working with Google Workspace content by copying text, exporting PDFs, and bringing AI-generated output back into your tools
3. NotebookLM in Action
  - Uploading sources and navigating the interface
  - Interacting with personalized content
4. Workflow Examples
  - Generating outlines, study materials, and summaries
  - Supporting decision-making and project planning
5. Responsible Use of AI Tools
  - Privacy and data handling
  - Strengths and limitations of AI-generated content
6. Wrap-Up and Application
  - Guided exploration with sample or participant documents
  - Reflections and recommendations for next steps