Artificial Intelligence

Getting Started with Source-Grounded AI

Led by: Deborah Stine

This session introduces source-grounded AI tools, with a focus on NotebookLM, which generate outputs using only the curated documents provided by the user. Participants will also explore practical ways to approximate retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) in tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot by constraining inputs and structuring prompts.

The session will examine both the opportunities and limitations of source-grounded AI in public sector contexts. Participants will learn how to set up a secure workspace, upload and organize documents, and use core NotebookLM features—such as Mind Maps—to explore dense materials and generate insights that can be used in policy communication.

Participants should bring a publicly available document to use during the session exercises.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Explain how source-grounded AI differs from general-purpose AI tools

  • Identify key opportunities and limitations of source-grounded approaches

  • Upload and manage source documents while adhering to public sector data governance standards

  • Use AI-generated mind maps to navigate complex materials and support downstream communication

This workshop is part of an InnovateUS Series called : The Prompting Lab
Click here to view all workshops from this series
Deborah Stine

Founder and Chief Instructor, Science and Technology Policy Academy

View bio

Format: online

Date & Time: April 17, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

Duration: 60 minutes

Register for free

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