IBM SkillsBuild: Interesting Content + Quality Instructional Design

I recently completed the IBM Skillsbuild Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals program which is a 10 hour program designed to help you understand what AI is and how it is being used in a variety of industries.  I thoroughly enjoyed this learning experience, not only because of the content, but it is an example of genuinely well-crafted instructional design as well.  There are 6 course in the program along with two optional bonus courses.  The lessons are easy to work through, engaging and broken up in a way that maximizes impact and interest. It would work well for high school students and educators to understand fundamental AI principles.  IBM Skillsbuild also has content and courses specifically for high school students and educators related to AI, but I have yet to explore those.

The first three course provided a clear explanation of AI, LLMs and machine and deep learning.  These courses provided lots of engaging activities, thoughtful examples and reflection questions to help cement an understanding of concepts covered.  One of my favorite courses in the series was Run AI Models with IBM Watson Studio.  The course is a simulation using IBM Watson Studio and you get a chance to see how a financial business might run an AI model.  It was fun to go through that process.  I also enjoyed the AI Ethics course that involved scenario based learning to help you think through some of the ethics issues related to AI.  Finally, the Your Future in AI course featured two videos of employee involved with AI, one of whom was an instructional designer for IBM.  I am excited to do a new certification soon on Sustainability and Technology.  I recommend the AI Foundations Course to anyone interested in getting a solid grasp of Artificial Intelligence.