Introduction to AI: Understanding and Using Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence has reached a pivotal moment in its development and is now influencing our daily lives in countless visible and invisible ways. This course provides an accessible introduction to artificial intelligence fundamentals, examining what constitutes AI technology, the mechanisms underlying how it functions, its practical applications across industries, documented benefits and inherent risks, and the ethical questions that accompany its use. Participants will acquire practical, applicable knowledge necessary to understand and engage with AI across both professional environments and personal contexts. Learn how to assess and evaluate AI systems critically; become familiar with best practices when using contemporary AI tools; and develop analytical thinking skills for evaluating AI-generated outputs and recommendations.

ChatGPT emerged in 2022 and has rapidly become omnipresent across numerous domains, including business operations, scientific research, political discourse, artistic creation, education systems, and casual daily interactions. This hands-on course teaches you how to leverage AI's remarkable capabilities for genuine benefit while recognizing potential hazards and maintaining personal security and privacy. AI is established as a permanent fixture in modern life. This practical course empowers you to become a thoughtful, effective, and informed AI tool user.

No specialized technical knowledge is required; however, basic comfort with conducting internet searches is recommended as a foundation.