AI for Knowledge Workers

University of California, Davis via Coursera

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Details

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Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Free Online Course (Audit)
Languages

English
Certificate

Paid Certificate Available
Duration & workload

9 hours 59 minutes
Sessions

On-Demand
Level

Beginner
Subtitles

English

Found in

Overview

If you’re new to AI or a beginner looking to increase your use of AI in knowledge work, this class is for you! It is designed for anyone interested in how AI works and the many ways it is transforming the way we work and create. From business professionals to creatives to leaders, this course will give you the tools to understand and harness the power of Generative AI for both creative and analytical work. We’ll discuss how Machine Learning and Deep Learning are essential to AI and we’ll review how neural networks are trained. You’ll learn how to select the right AI tools, and review real-world examples of using AI for creative tasks like generating social media posts and presentations, as well as critical thinking tasks like creating a lesson plan or analyzing data. You’ll explore different ways to apply AI in everyday work. From brainstorming and troubleshooting code to creating blog posts and project timelines, this course will give you hands-on experience with popular AI tools including ChatGPT and Claud. We’ll also dive into important challenges like AI bias, transparency, and data privacy. Finally we’ll discuss the future of AI in the workplace. By the end of this course, you’ll not only be proficient in using AI tools, but you’ll also be better equipped to navigate the rapidly changing world of work as AI continues to evolve.

Syllabus

Introduction to AI

Welcome to Module 1! In this module, you'll review the broad field of artificial intelligence, define key terms, and distinguish related terms. We'll explore fundamental concepts of machine learning and how it differs from traditional programming. We'll also explain what deep learning is and how it builds on machine learning techniques. Finally, we'll identify the main characteristics of AI and applications of GenAI. We have a lot to cover, so let's get started on this exciting topic!

Introduction to Prompting with GenAI

Welcome to Module 2! In this module, we’ll begin by discussing the importance of checking for approved AI tools or policies in the workplace, initial steps to start using AI tools, and the prerequisites and resources needed for using those tools. You’ll gain insights into common challenges but also best practices for overcoming them when adapting AI tools in a professional setting. We’ll discuss the distinction between creative and critical thinking tasks supported by GenAI, and identify practical applications of GenAI in both creative and analytical domains. We'll identify different prompting techniques, understand various prompting styles, and recognize when and how to apply each technique to different tasks. We have a lot to cover, so let's get started!

Creative and Critical Thinking with GenAI

Welcome to Module 3! In this module we’ll focus on critical and creative thinking with GenAI. You’ll review a series of demos on how to use GenAI, and discuss scenarios of different types of knowledge workers and how they might use these tools. You’ll identify how certain tasks can integrate both creative and critical approaches using GenAI tools. We’ll then evaluate initial challenges of adopting AI tools by exploring practical strategies and examples and build a framework to identify and select appropriate AI tools based on the task’s creative or analytical nature. Finally, you’ll recognize the relevance of GenAI tools in the context of knowledge work and foster a mindset of experimentation and exploration with those tools for specific needs. Let’s get started!

Safety Considerations and Expanding Your Learning

Welcome to the final module! In this module, we have some important topics to discuss regarding safety considerations when using AI and expanding your learning. We’ll explore key limitations and challenges of AI. You’ll learn how to use AI ethically and safely, and we’ll discuss practical concerns related to current AI models and their applications. You’ll comprehend the implications of AI’s lack of transparency and explainability then identify privacy and security risks associated with sensitive data in AI. We’ll discuss sources and manifestations of bias in AI systems and assess strategies to identify, report, and address algorithmic bias and explore methods to promote ethical considerations, fairness, and inclusivity in AI. We’ll then assess improvements made in AI training to reduce hallucinations. You’ll also learn about explainability in AI and its importance in decision-making processes. Finally, we’ll explore the future of work and methods for adapting to AI advancements and find reliable sources of information about AI tools and updates.