Getting Started with AI for Educators

Recently, I've received numerous inquiries about where to begin learning about Generative AI. Given the hours that I've already spent sharing with educator friends privately, I'm thrilled to dedicate today’s newsletter to sharing some of the courses that have been instrumental in my personal learning journey.

Regardless of whether you're new to AI or have some foundational knowledge, these resources can provide you with valuable insights and hands-on experiences. Without further ado, let's explore the list:

Microsoft's Training Hub: Empower educators to explore the potential of artificial intelligence

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/modules/empower-educators-explore-potential-artificial-intelligence/

One resource that I'd like to highlight is a 9-unit training module available on Microsoft's Training Hub. Carefully crafted by Microsoft's Education team, this module is a fantastic starting point for educators seeking practical insights tailored for the education sector. Each unit consists of a concise 3-minute video, making it possible to complete the entire module in approximately an hour.

While these videos provide helpful overviews, it's important to note that they are indeed overviews. The bulk of the information comes from the extensive reading material accompanying each video. As expected from a Microsoft-curated module, it centers heavily on Microsoft products, notably Bing Chat and various Microsoft AI-powered tools.

One commendable aspect that resonated with me is the module's recurring emphasis on ethics. The importance of verifying information generated through AI is a point underscored in each unit—a testament to Microsoft's commitment to promoting responsible AI use.

In summary, Microsoft's Education team has done an exceptional job assembling this module. However, one can't help but imagine how much more engaging it could be if it were transformed into a certification track course for education, replete with more engaging content and opportunities for practical application.

AI Courses through LinkedIn Learning

Several courses that I recommend are actually referenced in the Microsoft Education training mentioned earlier. Here are three of my favorites:

Career Essentials in Generative AI by Microsoft and LinkedIn https://www.dhirubhai.net/learning/paths/career-essentials-in-generative-ai-by-microsoft-and-linkedin?u=104 This is a five-course learning path that can be completed in just under four hours. As the first official certification that I have earned on LinkedIn, I can personally attest to its value. Even with my prior knowledge, I picked up a few new techniques around search and Bing Chat. Though the courses are predominantly business-oriented, most of them fit into a K-12 context. The one exception is the "Introduction to Artificial Intelligence" course, which is decidedly more business-focused. As an introduction to AI, this certification is commendable, though more will be required for practical application.

How to Research and Write Using Generative AI Tools

https://www.dhirubhai.net/learning/how-to-research-and-write-using-generative-ai-tools/ This course, spanning just over an hour, is transformative for educators. As many schools continue to resist AI tools, this course offers a fresh perspective on how these tools can be creatively and effectively used to support learning. While not specifically designed for academics, the examples provided are sure to spark excitement about the possibilities for student use, particularly among high schoolers. With the likelihood of schools remaining in block mode this academic year, applying what's learned here could help educators create engaging learning moments while optimizing newly acquired time saving techniques through GenAI.

Introduction to Prompt Engineering for Generative AI

https://www.dhirubhai.net/learning/introduction-to-prompt-engineering-for-generative-ai/ This is where my AI journey began and it's a course I frequently recommend. Learning prompt engineering fundamentally changed how I used AI. While it's not part of the AI certification track, it's a course that I consider indispensable, along with the one mentioned above.

n summary, LinkedIn Learning offers an array of courses to help you embark on your journey into the world of Generative AI. Whether you are a novice exploring AI for the first time or an experienced educator looking to integrate AI into your teaching practice, these courses provide the knowledge and skills needed to navigate this transformative field. The mix of practical tips, ethical considerations, and real-world applications make them invaluable resources for any educator.

Other learning worth mentioning:

ISTE U: Artificial Intelligence Explorations and Their Practical Use in Schools https://www.iste.org/professional-development/iste-u/artificial-intelligence I have not taken this course but it is offered through ISTE, an organization dedicated to serving K-12. That said, it is a paid course that also provides graduate credit at an additional fee. It's also registered for much later in the year and as fast as AI is changing, I would probably stick with free learnings that are updated frequently until schools are more open to adoption of these tools.

Google Cloud Skills Boost: Generative AI Learning Path https://www.cloudskillsboost.google/paths/118 This is a learning path by google that is free on its paid learning platform. I've actually completed the course on Introduction to Gen AI and am working on the rest. It's basically a video learning course with certification at the end and but I'd still stick to the courses on LinkedIn I think with perhaps doing this as a refresher just because.