Self-Study Assignment 5.2: Think & Act 💡Building an AI App with a Free API

Learning Outcome Addressed

• Explain how APIs enable applications to interact with external services and data sources
• Build a simple AI-powered application that uses an external API to retrieve or process information.

Scenario

You have been asked to explore how external data sources can enhance an AI-powered application. Your task is to identify a free API, understand how it can be used and create a simple application concept that integrates the API into a functional workflow.

Task

1. Search online for a free API directory such as Free APIs and select a free API that interests you.
   Example site: Free APIs Links to an external site.​
   Example free API: Dog API Links to an external site.​
2. Review the API documentation to understand:
   • What data or functionality the API provides
   • Any usage requirements or limitations
3. Using Google Gemini or any other vibe-coding app, provide the URL of the API documentation and ask:
   • How the API works
   • What information can be retrieved or processed
   • How it could be integrated into an AI-powered application
4. Open Canvas from the Gemini Tools menu or any other vibe-coding app and ask to create a simple application using the selected API.
5. Review the generated application and evaluate:
   • How the API is used within the workflow
   • The role of AI within the application
   • Any limitations, dependencies or opportunities for improvement.

Estimated Duration: 30 minutes

Note: This is a practice activity and will not be graded or impact your programme completion. However, we strongly encourage participation for a more holistic learning experience