-
Introduction
-
Chatbot basics
-
Prompting
-
Context engineering
-
GenAI and data
-
AI limits: probability vs. certainty
-
AI limits: judgment vs. patterns
-
Trusting AI limits
-
Knowledge check
-
We want to hear from you!
-
Conclusion
Getting Started with Generative AI & Chatbots -- AI in Construction Program (Part 3)
Learn prompting, context engineering, data security, and navigate AI's probabilistic nature.
Instructor: Hugh Seaton
1 hour
Last reviewed 10/2025
Video Content
Course Description
Unlock the power of Generative AI and chatbots in this module. You will learn that chatbots are your direct link to powerful AI models, acting as a user-friendly interface that lets you access advanced tools and data. Discover how to use these digital assistants for everything from getting quick answers and drafting documents to creating images and connecting with other software. This module will introduce you to Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), a key method that lets you point AI to your specific project documents, drastically improving accuracy and reducing those tricky "hallucinations".
A major focus will be on prompting, the art of giving clear instructions to AI. You will master how to write effective prompts that get the precise results you need, avoiding common AI quirks with math or word counts. We will explore techniques like defensive prompting and context engineering, which teach you to set boundaries for AI, ensuring it relies on up-to-date, relevant information from your project data. Learn how to protect your sensitive project data when using chatbots, with simple steps to ensure your information stays secure.
This module also delves into the critical differences between AI's probabilistic nature and traditional software's certainty, explaining why human oversight is always vital for reliable outcomes. You will gain a clear understanding that while AI is incredibly fast at pattern matching, it lacks human judgment and the ability to truly understand meaning. By the end, you will be equipped to confidently interact with Generative AI tools, knowing how to maximize their potential for construction efficiency while maintaining critical human control and ensuring data security.
Learning Objectives
-
Explain how AI differs from classic software.
-
Identify AI “hallucinations” and why they happen.
-
Outline three elements of effective prompting.
-
Discuss why human review and context matter.
Prerequisites
-
Learning Level: Beginner
-
Prerequisite Knowledge: Completion of The Basics of AI.
-
Recommended Knowledge: None.
Continuing Education Course Credits
Course Title: AI in Construction
Course Number: PC-02-091725
Session Number: 1
Curriculum Group Name: AIA Providers
Credit: 5 AIA LU
Course Expiration Date: 09/24/2028
Procore's Continuing Education courses may qualify for continuing education credits with other professional organizations or fulfill state licensing requirements. If you are a member of a different organization, you can download your course completion certificate from your learning profile and report your completion yourself to the organization for potential credit. Please refer to the organization's continuing education requirements for course eligibility information.
AIA CES Provider statement
Procore Technologies is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 40108059. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this module help me understand why AI sometimes produces variable or incorrect outputs, even when it seems smart?
Yes, you will learn that AI is probabilistic. It works by assigning a probability that something is correct. This allows it to handle "fuzzy" real-world inputs, but also means its outputs can be variable and sometimes incorrect, necessitating human oversight and thoughtful prompting to ensure reliability.
What will I learn about using chatbots to interact with AI models effectively?
This module will teach you how to use chatbots as a powerful user interface to communicate with various AI models, connect to essential tools and data, and even launch AI agents, making them more useful and important in your daily work. You will understand that the chatbot is the interface, separate from the underlying AI models themselves.
How will this module help me improve the accuracy of AI-generated information?
You will learn to implement Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), a key method that directs AI to specific documents and data you provide, rather than relying solely on its general memory. This technique is crucial for enhancing accuracy, minimizing hallucinations (AI making up information), and getting precise answers to your questions.
What's Next
Continue your learning journey
This course is part of the “AI in Construction” Learning Path. Explore and Complete the additional Courses in this learning path below to complete your journey.
-
Program Intro
View Course PageWelcome to AI in Construction! Explore program goals, module content, and what to expect in your learning journey.
-
The Basics of AI
View Course PageDive into AI essentials and learn about Deep and Generative AI and how AI agents perform tasks.
-
Getting Started with Generative AI & Chatbots
View Course PageLearn prompting, context engineering, data security, and navigate AI's probabilistic nature.
-
Diving Deeper into Prompting
View Course PageElevate your prompting skills. Explore Chain of Thought, creative prompting, and defensive strategies to maximize AI's potential.
-
Applying AI to Construction
View Course PageExplore AI uses in estimating, project management, QA/QC, and contract review, always with human oversight.
-
Working Together: Humans & AI
View Course PageMaximize AI's scale and consistency while leveraging human judgment and intuition for success.
-
Program Exam & Resources
View Course PageTest your knowledge with the final exam and explore pathways for continuous AI learning.
Related Resources
Instructors
Hugh Seaton
Hugh is CEO of TheLink.ai, a Procore marketplace partner, author of The Construction Technology Handbook (Wiley, 2021), host of the AI in Construction youtube channel, and creator of Procore’s Data in Construction series. As product manager and entrepreneur, Hugh has led the creation of a series of AI products, from voice-activated daily logs to specifications analysis tools and more. Hugh lives in Austin, TX with his dog, Bob.
