The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping higher education, prompting new questions about how these tools can and should support learning. Yet many conversations remain focused on plagiarism and policy rather than on how students learn. This workshop responds to that gap by examining how AI can deepen learning, reflection, and creativity across disciplines. I will begin by demystifying generative AI, showing how these tools form predictions, create responses, and occasionally make mistakes. By first building their own understanding of how these systems work, educators are better prepared to help students approach AI thoughtfully, critically, and with purpose. Drawing on this foundation, I will then share classroom-based AI-implementations developed at Penn State: (1) AI-integrated exam wrappers that guide metacognitive reflection, (2) instructor-created podcasts developed with AI to expand content consumption through flexible, multimodal learning, and (3) the use of AI for visual design and scientific storytelling. These examples demonstrate how AI can enhance instructional design and support students in analyzing, visualizing, and explaining complex ideas, serving as a scaffold for thinking rather than a shortcut to answers. The second half of the workshop focuses on collaboration and idea generation. Participants will brainstorm ways to incorporate AI into their own teaching through guided activities and peer discussion. The workshop will conclude by highlighting institutional approaches for creating shared understanding around AI use in coursework, such as Penn State’s AI icon system, which helps instructors communicate expectations consistently across courses and departments. Attendees will leave with ready to use AI-classroom activities and a deeper understanding of how to create meaningful AI-based learning experiences for students. This workshop advances NACTA’s mission by promoting teaching excellence, collaboration, and innovation in integrating AI across agricultural education.