Free course · Advanced Technology
Artificial Intelligence Starter
A free introduction to what AI is and is not: how systems learn from data, what neural networks do, real tools and applications, and how to use AI responsibly.
Free · self-study · no certificate
About 5 hours
2 modules · 5 lessons
What you will be able to do
- Explain in plain language what AI and machine learning are
- Describe how a model learns from examples and why data quality matters
- Identify risks such as bias and set rules for responsible use
Who it's for
- Anyone curious about AI, technical or not
- Professionals deciding whether AI can help their organisation
Before you start
None. Reading the Python examples is optional.
Module 1 · about 120 minutes
How AI Works
Concepts and history, learning from data and the idea of neural networks.
- Explain AI concepts without jargon
- Describe training, testing and data quality
Module 2 · about 80 minutes
AI in the Real World
Tools and applications, and ethics, bias and responsible use.
- Match AI tools to real tasks
- Recognise bias and privacy risks
Further learning
- Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (UNESCO) — The global standard on AI ethics adopted by UNESCO member states, built on a human-rights approach.
- AI Risk Management Framework (NIST) — A voluntary framework for managing AI risks, organised around govern, map, measure and manage.
- Machine Learning Crash Course (Google) — For learners who want to understand the machine learning behind AI tools in more depth.
Continue with a full program
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) — Understand how AI systems work and how they are applied in real-world products.
- Machine Learning (ML) — Build models that learn from data for prediction, classification, and decision-making.
- AI for Business & Productivity — Use AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Canva AI to automate workflows and create content.
Want the full Artificial Intelligence (AI) program?
This free course is an introduction. The full program is taught live by an instructor, with practical assignments, assessments, projects and a certificate.
See the Artificial Intelligence (AI) program