AI Essentials

AI Essentials: A Beginner’s Guide to Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword—it’s part of our everyday lives. Whether you're a professional looking to stay current, a tech-curious learner, or someone exploring AI’s impact on the workplace, this AI Essentials course is your starting point.

Over four days, you’ll learn what AI is, how it works, where it shows up in your daily life, and what ethical conversations surround it. We break down the tech jargon, provide real-world examples, and walk you through hands-on use of popular AI tools like ChatGPT and virtual assistants.

This course is perfect for non-technical users, early-career professionals, educators, small business owners, and anyone in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area who wants to become AI-aware and AI-confident.

 

 

 

 

Why Take AI Essentials Training in Maryland?

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword—it’s part of our everyday lives. Whether you're a professional looking to stay current, a tech-curious learner, or someone exploring AI’s impact on the workplace, this AI Essentials course is your starting point.

Over four days, you’ll learn what AI is, how it works, where it shows up in your daily life, and what ethical conversations surround it. We break down the tech jargon, provide real-world examples, and walk you through hands-on use of popular AI tools like ChatGPT and virtual assistants.

This course is perfect for non-technical users, early-career professionals, educators, small business owners, and anyone in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area who wants to become AI-aware and AI-confident.

What You Need to Know Before Taking AI Essentials

• No prior technical experience is required
• Curiosity and interest in technology encouraged
• Access to a browser and internet connection (for online learners)

This course is designed for absolute beginners or lightly technical users who want a clearer understanding of what AI is and how it functions. If you’ve ever wondered what terms like “machine learning,” “neural networks,” or “ChatGPT” really mean, this is the course for you.

What Are the Benefits of AI Essentials Training?

By completing this course, you will:

• Demystify AI terms like machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks
• Learn how AI is already integrated into your phone, your bank, your health care, and your online experience
• Understand the ethical challenges and responsibilities of using and developing AI
• Build confidence using popular AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, financial tracking apps, smart home devices, and more
• Gain the foundational knowledge needed to communicate about AI in your workplace, classroom, or community
• Become a more informed citizen in an AI-powered society

Who Needs AI Essentials?

This course is ideal for:

• Beginners in technology and digital literacy
• Federal employees and contractors encountering AI tools in workflows
• Educators seeking to understand and explain AI
• Job seekers and career switchers in tech-adjacent roles
• Small business owners and non-technical professionals
• Anyone curious about how AI is shaping our lives and jobs

No programming experience or advanced math needed. Just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

How Long Does AI Essentials Training Take?

The course is delivered over 4 days, with each day focusing on a specific theme. You can attend in-person in Greenbelt, MD or live-online from anywhere.

How Hard Is the AI Essentials Course?

This is an introductory course designed to be engaging, accessible, and jargon-free. Our instructors are experts in translating complex ideas into easy-to-understand lessons, making this course approachable for:

• Adults returning to education
• People switching careers
• Tech beginners
• Professionals upskilling for modern workplaces

With interactive examples and live demos, even complex topics like neural networks are broken down with simplicity and clarity.

Suggested Next Certifications / Courses

• AI Advanced
• Python for Security professional
• CompTIA Data+
• AI & Cybersecurity

What Will I Learn in This AI Essentials Class?

Day 1: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

• What is AI?
• Understanding the basics: AI as technology that enables machines to mimic human intelligence
• A brief history: From early dreams of intelligent machines to today’s smart assistants
• How AI has evolved: Key milestones and breakthroughs in AI development
• Key Terms and Concepts Explained Simply
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machines “thinking” and “learning” like humans
• Machine Learning: Teaching computers to learn from examples, not just follow instructions
• Deep Learning: Advanced learning inspired by how our brains work
• Neural Networks: Computer systems modeled after the human brain
• Data: The “fuel” that powers AI
• Real-World Applications: AI in Our Daily Lives
• How AI curates your social media feeds
• Voice assistants (like Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) help answer questions and set reminders
• Spam filters keep unwanted emails out of your inbox
• Navigation apps that suggest the fastest route home

Day 2: AI Across Industries

• Healthcare
• AI helps doctors diagnose diseases faster and more accurately
• Virtual health assistants provide basic support and reminders
• Finance
• Detecting fraud and keeping your money safe
• Personal finance apps that help you budget and save
• Marketing
• Personalized ads tailored to your interests
• AI-driven customer support chatbots
• Manufacturing
• Robots assembling products efficiently
• Predictive maintenance to prevent equipment breakdowns
• Agriculture
• AI-powered tools for monitoring crops and predicting yields
• Smart irrigation systems that save water
• Environmental Conservation
• Tracking endangered species with AI-powered cameras
• Predicting and managing natural disasters
• Education
• Personalized learning platforms that adapt to each student
• Language translation tools for global classrooms
• Creative Arts
• AI-generated music, art, and writing
• Tools for editing photos and videos automatically

Day 3: User Interaction with AI and Practical Guidance

• How We Interact with AI Everyday
• Voice recognition in smartphones and smart speakers
• Chatbots for customer service and information
• Accessibility tools: Speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and visual aids
• Hands-On with AI Tools
• Using ChatGPT: Asking questions, generating ideas, and writing assistance
• AI for personal finance: Tracking spending and making savings goals
• AI in home security: Smart cameras and alarm systems
• AI for health monitoring: Wearable devices and apps
• Simple tips to get started with popular AI-powered apps

Day 4: Ethics, Safety, and the Future of AI

• Ethical and Social Considerations
• Privacy: How AI collects and uses personal data
• Surveillance: Balancing safety and individual rights
• Bias: Ensuring fairness and avoiding discrimination in AI decisions
• Employment: The impact of AI on jobs and new opportunities
• AI in law enforcement and warfare: Risks and benefits
• Looking Ahead: Future Trends and Safe AI Conversations
• Emerging AI trends: Smarter assistants, improved healthcare, and creative breakthroughs
• How to talk about AI with children: Encouraging curiosity and discussing safety in simple terms
• Tips for staying informed as AI technology evolves