AI for Knowledge Workers

University of California, Davis via Coursera

Coursera based on 96 ratings

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Overview

"AI for Knowledge Workers" is a practical, beginner-friendly course designed to help professionals in roles such as analysts, marketers, consultants, educators, and administrators leverage artificial intelligence to improve productivity, creativity, and decision-making. As AI rapidly transforms knowledge-based work, this course provides the essential tools and understanding needed to stay competitive and efficient in a digital-first world. The course introduces foundational AI concepts and demonstrates how to use everyday AI tools—like ChatGPT, Notion AI, Grammarly, and AI-enhanced search engines—to streamline tasks such...

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, well 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. Youll gain insights into common challenges but also best practices for overcoming them when adapting AI tools in a professional setting. Well 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 well focus on critical and creative thinking with GenAI. Youll 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. Youll identify how certain tasks can integrate both creative and critical approaches using GenAI tools. Well 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 tasks creative or analytical nature. Finally, youll 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. Lets 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. Well explore key limitations and challenges of AI. Youll learn how to use AI ethically and safely, and well discuss practical concerns related to current AI models and their applications. Youll comprehend the implications of AIs lack of transparency and explainability then identify privacy and security risks associated with sensitive data in AI. Well 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. Well then assess improvements made in AI training to reduce hallucinations. Youll also learn about explainability in AI and its importance in decision-making processes. Finally, well explore the future of work and methods for adapting to AI advancements and find reliable sources of information about AI tools and updates.