Overview
**The free pilot is now closed. The course will open again in January 2025 for registration. Register your interest and you will be notified as soon as it opens.
Introduction to AI Literacy is a self-directed micro-course designed to empower learners with a foundational understanding the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how to develop essential skills needed to navigate this rapidly evolving field. Grounded in a comprehensive AI Literacy Framework, the course explores six key areas critical to AI competency: AI Fundamentals, Data Fluency, Critical Thinking & Fact-Checking, Diverse Use Cases, Ethics, and the Future of Work. Through engaging content and practical insights, this course will demystify AI, helping you to not only understand the technology but also to critically assess its impact on society and your professional life.
Course Requirements
- No prior experience with AI is required
- To receive your course badge, ensure that you complete the final activity (Action Planning Worksheet) and post-assessment.
- Define the concept of AI literacy and its importance
- Recognize key terms, events, and examples related to AI, its history, and evolution
- Identify various AI techniques and their applications
- Examine the relationship between data and AI system and how different data sources influence AI output
- Critically evaluate AI outcomes, identify potential errors or biases, and make informed judgments about AI content
- Review diverse applications of AI across sectors and understand how it affects our society
- Describe potential ethical implications of AI, including concerns around privacy, fairness, and transparency, and contemplate responsible AI use
- Recognize AI's impact on the workforce, and prepare for the evolving changes in job roles and skills requirements needed in your personal work context
Reflective questions and learning activities are embedded into each unit to guide and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. These prompts are designed to encourage critical thinking and help you apply the concepts of AI to your own context.
To support your learning journey, download the Learning Journal for the Introduction to AI Literacy course. This journal serves as a dedicated space for you to compile your notes, insights, and reflections as you engage with the material.
How It Works
Course Access
90 days
Effort
8-12 hours
Delivery
Online, On-Demand
Instruction
Self-paced
Cost
Free
This course is designed for graduate students and emerging scholars, but it is relevant to anyone wanting an introduction to the foundational concepts of AI. Whether you are a professional looking to enhance your career with AI knowledge, an educator wanting to integrate AI into your curriculum, or a curious individual eager to understand how AI is shaping our world, this course provides the essential tools and insights to grasp AI's potential and implications.
Dr. Stella Lee
Diversity, Inclusion and Equity SME and facilitator.
Academic-turn-consultant Dr. Stella Lee is an ed-tech and AI strategist, international speaker, startup advisor, StartEd mentor, LinkedIn Learning instructor, writer and executive board member for the Learning and Development Accelerator. With over 20 years of experience in digital learning, Stella combines her passion, academic background, and knowledge in computer science, visual art, human-computer interaction, and adult education with her unique global insights for her work with clients such as the United Nations, Asian Development Bank, UNICEF, The Open University, University of British Columbia, Government of Yukon, Government of Alberta, WorkSafeBC, TransLink, Bosa Properties, Arco/Murray Construction, and InnoEnergy. She is the founder of Paradox Learning Inc., a boutique consulting firm based in Calgary, Canada.
Still firmly keeping one foot in academia, Stella continues to research, collaborate, mentor, and teach with universities and institutions worldwide. Stella’s research interests include AI applications for education, ed-tech ethics, personalized and adaptive learning systems, and learning analytics.
Course FAQs
Is this an instructor-led course?
This course is designed to be self-paced with all materials you need for successful completion contained within the learning platform. The course has been designed by subject matter experts and includes interviews with leading experts, aligned to the course outcomes. The course is an immersive experience that includes a mix of content including video introductions and video content, impactful readings, learning checks, and interactive elements – all which can be completed at your own pace.
How much time will I need to spend?
Each course will require 6-8 hours to complete. You will have 90 days access from the time of registration to complete the course. After 90 days, the course will be closed.
Do I have to be online at a certain time of day?
No, you do not have to be online at a specific time. You complete the coursework at the times and places that fits your schedule. Each course is designed for working professionals who are balancing their work, family and community commitments.
When do I start?
You can start the course as soon as you register! You will automatically be directed to the interactive learning environment.
How long will I have access to the course?
You will have 90 days from the time of registration to complete the course.
What is the refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for courses. Refunds may be considered under exceptional circumstances on a case-by-case basis. Please contact powered@athabascau.ca for more information.
Are there tests or quizzes involved?
There will be activities, assignments, and short quizzes within the course to ensure you understand the content. All quizzes are designed to be accessible and easy to complete by engaging in the course content. Within each module, you will have the answers to each evaluation.
What are the computer requirements for this course?
You should have access to a Mac, PC, or tablet with an Internet connection, with Safari, Chrome, Microsoft Edge or Firefox as a browser. Here is a link that outlines browser support:
https://documentation.brightspace.com/EN/brightspace/requirements/all/browser_support.htm
For virtual sessions:
- Speakers/headphones
- Web camera and microphone
Learners that want to use their smart phone to access the courses can also download the D2L Pulse App for free to access the course available on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.d2l.brightspace.student.android&hl=en_CA
Or the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/brightspace-pulse/id1001688546
Does this course have prerequisites?
This course does not have a required prerequisite.
Who do I contact if I need help?
You can contact powered@athabascau.ca for assistance with any questions you may have. We are here to help!