South Australians are being given the chance to learn the basics of artificial intelligence through a free online course developed by TAFE SA, as the technology becomes more present in daily life and workplaces.
The program, titled AI Essentials: Getting Started with Artificial Intelligence, introduces how the technology functions and addresses issues around privacy, safety and ethics. The course takes between five and ten hours of self-paced study and participants will receive a certificate on completion.
The Malinauskas Government, which announced the course, said it is intended to make AI skills more accessible and to support workers in gaining confidence with new technologies. It follows the state’s decision to embrace AI in schools, with the Education Department recently preparing to roll out its own AI tool, EdChat, for public secondary students.
Education Minister Blair Boyer said the course reflects the government’s commitment to making sure people have the opportunity to keep up with changes in technology. “AI is being incorporated into workplaces everywhere, and this course offers people the chance to build on their skills at no cost,” he said.
Michael Brown, Member for Florey, added that AI knowledge will be essential across industries. “This course will enable anyone to learn the basics of AI, whether still in school, upskilling or enjoying their retirement,” he said.
Interim TAFE SA Chief Executive Adam Kilvert said the course was designed to fill a gap for people wanting straightforward, practical information about AI. “It provides useful knowledge about responsible use of AI and gives participants the confidence to try the tools that are available,” he said.
Unions have also welcomed the initiative, though with a note of caution. SA Unions Secretary Dale Beasley said while AI could make jobs safer and more productive, protections need to be in place to ensure workers are not disadvantaged. “We must get the guardrails right from the beginning,” he said. “The benefits of this new technology should be shared fairly across the community, not just captured by large companies.”
The course is fully online and available from 29 September. Registrations are open on the TAFE SA website.
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