The Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) has launched a series of online courses on generative Artificial Intelligence (generative AI) to help civil servants use new artificial intelligence (AI) tools safely, responsibly, and efficiently. The courses are freely available on Government Campus via Civil Service Learning and there is no limit on the number of learners.
Generative AI is a ground-breaking technology that can produce new text, code, images, video, or audio, by leveraging the data it’s been trained on. AI has the potential to boost our productivity and revolutionise the way we interact with information, but it’s not without limitations and risks. It is crucial for both departments and individuals to address gaps in knowledge and skills that may result in inappropriate uses of AI.
We recently updated the Transforming for a digital future roadmap, which now includes a commitment to publish a new framework for the government’s use of generative AI of which we have published this week. We’ve also collaborated with the Government Skills and Curriculum Unit and leading tech firms to publish over 30 high-quality courses on different aspects of generative AI.
Who the courses are for
The courses are for all civil servants who are new to generative AI or are interested in learning more about this technology.
What the courses include
The e-learning courses have been made freely available online by leading tech firms. CDDO has selected the courses based on the learning needs which emerged from user research conducted across multiple government departments, and the broader foundational digital skills outlined in the digital, data and technology capability framework.
In the courses you’ll learn about a range of topics, including:
- Generative AI - Introduction: what generative AI is, what the main generative AI applications are, and their capabilities and limits
- Generative AI - Risks and ethics: what the generic risks and technical limitations of AI technologies are, including ethical implications of using AI in government
- Generative AI - Tools and applications: how to use different generative AI tools
- Generative AI - Prompt engineering: what prompt engineering is and how it can be used to improve the accuracy of generative AI tools
- Generative AI - Strategy and governance: how to evaluate the business value of AI and assess its potential impact on organisational culture and governance
- Generative AI - Technical curriculum: how to implement and train different generative AI solutions to generate customised outcomes
The courses are self-paced and use a mix of articles, videos, and optional tasks.
You are encouraged to check your department’s policy on the use of AI before using any of the tools described in the courses.
What’s next
CDDO and Government Skills and Curriculum Unit are setting up a new Artificial Intelligence page on Prospectus Online. Here you’ll find a series of off-the-shelf courses made available through the Learning Frameworks on more specific aspects of generative AI and the wider field of Artificial Intelligence.
We’re also partnering with training providers and leading firms to organise a series of workshops. These events will focus on forthcoming AI products and the technical challenges associated with the development of bespoke AI solutions.
Moreover, CDDO has been working on fresh guidance outlining the opportunities and dangers associated with the use of generative AI technologies in government.
Are you ready?
Don't get left behind, enrol now in the generative AI courses and look out for upcoming communications about new guidance, workshops and learning resources.
Find out more about the Generative AI Framework.
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