AI Essentials: A Practical Introduction

Demystify AI and gain practical knowledge

Course Format and Delivery

Delivery Method: LiveOnline
Schedule: 2 hours
Cost: Contact info-us@softed.com

All sessions are delivered live by an expert instructor in a fully interactive online environment.

*20% off for group bookings when booking 3 or more attendees from the same organization on the same course dates in the same transaction.

About this course

This condensed AI Essentials Primer provides busy professionals with fundamental AI literacy through clear explanations and hands-on practice with tools. In two focused hours, participants gain practical understanding of AI capabilities and limitations, enabling confident participation in workplace AI discussions. You’ll come away with a solid working understanding of generative AI tools like Microsoft CoPilot, ChatGPT, Gemini, and others and be ready to start applying them in your job.

What you will learn

Understand AI fundamentals through plain-language explanations
Cut through AI hype and understand what’s really possible
Recognize practical AI applications in everyday work
Use basic prompting techniques effectively
Identify AI opportunities and risks in your workflow
Navigate essential privacy and risk priorities

Topics Covered

Materials: Quick reference guide with prompting tips and safety checklist

Section 1: Demystifying AI

What AI actually is (and isn't)
Key differences from traditional software
Common AI types in the workplace

Activity: AI Myth-Busting Quiz

Section 2: Getting hands-on with AI Tools

Live demonstrations of workplace AI tools
Understanding outputs and limitations
Basic prompt engineering
Recognizing AI "hallucinations"

Activity: Conversing with AI and getting it to produce work products

Section 3: Using AI Tools in your own work

Identifying AI opportunities using the "Sweet Spot" framework
Quick wins for common tasks
When NOT to use AI

Activity: AI Opportunity Mapping

Section 4: Using AI Tools smartly and safely

Essential privacy and data guidelines
Company policy basics
Ethical considerations
Resources for continued learning

Chris Knotts

Facilitator

Chris is an experienced leader in enterprise technology with over two decades in training, coaching, and emergent technology enablement, particularly in project management. He excels in creating transformative technology training programs focused on software development, data environments, and agile methodologies. His expertise encompasses enterprise software engineering, advanced analytics, data engineering, and the application of AI and machine learning in business. Chris combines design thinking and lean technology management to innovate in product development and operational strategies, impacting various sectors such as government, education, and multinational corporations.

Questions about this course? Interested in another date?

Phone: 1-800-268-0390
Email: info-us@softed.com

We'd love to have the opportunity to discuss how we can assist your business.