The Iowa Initiative for Artificial Intelligence (IIAI) and Information Technology Services are now offering introductory short courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML). Any University of Iowa student or employee can take courses individually or complete a sequence of the trainings to earn a HawkAI Certificate of Proficiency in AI/ML.
“By earning a Level 1 HawkAI Certificate, you’ll be equipped to understand the AI landscape, navigate the rapidly evolving field of AI, and boost your productivity with AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and more,” says Milan Sonka, director of IIAI and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “The main goal of these courses is to provide an overview of generative and analytical AI, and knowledge about ethical and trustworthiness aspects of using AI in a broad range of daily-life applications across disciplines."
No prior AI or computational background is required for Level 1 HawkAI courses. All are offered at no cost to enrolleesand online. Level 1 courses will be offered from mid-September through mid-November 2024. Offerings will consist of seven courses, one to three hours in length. Participation in four is required for the certificate. Courses will be taught by faculty and registration, attendance, and passing a brief quiz are required.
For a list of courses and to register, visit the IIAI website.
Additional certificate levels will focus on interdisciplinary research and AI methodology and development, starting in spring 2025. As researchers gain techniques for data analysis, they will be able to provide leadership to guide others and share expertise.
The courses are supported by funding from the P3 Program and are the result of a successful proposal through the Strategic Plan Action and Resource Committee (SPARC) process.
“Artificial intelligence and machine learning already impact many aspects of the society and their role will continue to grow,” says Associate Vice President and Chief Information Officer Steve Fleagle. “In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, investing in our research, workforce training, and student education better prepares the university for a future where robust AI expertise, tools, and support will be a requirement for attracting and retaining both students and faculty.”
The HawkAI certification is part of broader efforts to expand AI knowledge on campus. Several AI committees have developed guidance for use of AI in research and teaching. A new AI hub on the ITS website highlights the guidance, along with tools, resources, security considerations, and AI use cases.
Microsoft Copilot is available to all employees and students, providing a generative AI-powered platform with enterprise data protection. More than 2,000 people have participated in trainings, learning to use the tool to draft content, analyze data, summarize documents, create images, and more.
With funding from a complementary P3 proposal, ITS is hiring three staff members to focus on AI literacy and engagement. Surveys indicate that many on campus are still new to AI. The AI team will help people get started, explore ways AI could be useful to them, and raise awareness of the guidance that exists.
“Given the dynamic nature and swift evolution of AI and its applications, it is critical for the University of Iowa to embrace the advancements proactively, manage the risks and challenges, and be as prepared as possible for the impacts of this transformative technology,” Fleagle says.