AI for the Workplace : Practical Skills for Work

About this course

The course examines how generative AI works, what tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini can and cannot do, and how to write clear prompts. Participants use guided exercises to apply AI to workplace tasks including researching topics, developing ideas, planning, drafting, revising, summarising and adapting content for different audiences. Teaching combines demonstrations, short explanations, discussion, individual activities and practical experimentation. The course also addresses accuracy, unsupported claims, bias, privacy, confidentiality, copyright and responsible use, helping participants assess AI-generated material rather than accepting it uncritically.

What you'll learn

• Explain the basic purpose and workplace uses of generative AI.
• Write prompts that give an AI tool a clear task, context and required format.
• Review and refine AI responses to improve their relevance and usefulness.
• Use AI to research topics, generate ideas, organise information and plan tasks.
• Draft, summarise, edit and adapt workplace content for different audiences and tones.
• Identify inaccuracies, bias, unsupported claims and information that should not be shared with public AI tools.

Is this course right for you?

This introductory course is intended for learners from varied professional and technical backgrounds, including people returning to work or changing careers. No previous experience with artificial intelligence is required, although participants should have basic confidence using a computer, navigating websites and entering text online. Activities include discussion, guided exercises and individual work.

• Suitable for learners developing workplace skills or exploring a career change.
• Activities can be adapted to different occupations, interests and levels of technical experience.
• There is no compulsory work to complete outside the class.

Before you go

• Participants need access to an email address and may be asked to create or sign in to a free AI service account.
• Computers and internet access are provided.
• Participants may bring their own laptop and charger if preferred.
• Confidential, commercially sensitive or personally identifiable workplace information should not be brought or uploaded for class exercises.