Introduction

Artificial intelligence is one of the defining technologies of the 21st century. It now underpins many of the systems we use every day: from search engines and recommendation systems to medical diagnostics, climate modelling and creative technologies. As AI continues to transform industries, economies and decision-making, understanding its possibilities, limitations and ethical implications is increasingly important. The AI Hub aims to support informed, critical and inclusive learning about this rapidly-evolving field.

Who is it for?

The hub is for learners looking to build confidence with digital technologies: in work, in education, and in everyday use in life. It’s for anyone interested in how AI is shaping society. No prior technical knowledge is required – resources range from introductory explanations to more in-depth explorations of key ideas and applications. The materials can also be counted towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

What is in it?

The hub contains links to Microsoft free course content on the subject of AI, looking at different aspects of the subject including a general introduction – AI fluency – to content discussing the human skills required for the AI era. Alongside the course content, you'll find lots of thought-provoking articles and videos to enhance and expand your studies. Use the left-hand navigation on the hub to filter resources based on what you're interested in.

What are the different resources and how long do they take to study?

The resources vary, from articles that might take as little as five minutes to read, up to badged courses that take up to 24 hours to study. When you select a resource it will tell you how long you might expect to spend on it. These are estimations and you may choose to spend less time and focus on certain parts of a resource that interest you. There are no time limits, so you can study at a pace that suits you. There are visual resources as well in the form of interactives where you can choose your route through the content as well as videos and animations that explain specific subjects.

Click to explore the OpenLearn Microsoft AI Hub.