Course Overview
Curious about ChatGPT and artificial intelligence but not sure where to start?
Generative AI Made Easy is a practical introduction to ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, designed for seniors who want to understand what AI is, what it can do and how it may be useful in everyday life.
Generative AI is developing quickly and is increasingly appearing in the technology and online services we use. You may have heard of ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, Claude or other AI tools but wondered what they actually do, how they differ and whether you can use them yourself.
In this relaxed and practical class, you’ll explore the basics of artificial intelligence and generative AI in plain English. You’ll learn what Large Language Models (LLMs) are, gain an understanding of where generative AI gets its information, compare different AI tools and have an opportunity to explore how they respond to everyday questions and tasks.
Importantly, the course also looks at the limitations and risks of generative AI. You’ll learn why AI can sometimes provide incorrect or misleading answers, why the information you enter matters, and why AI-generated answers should not automatically be assumed to be accurate.
This course is about understanding AI rather than becoming an AI expert. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, explore current generative AI tools and develop greater confidence deciding when AI may be useful in your everyday life.
Macquarie Community College operates from a range of venues across Northern and Western Sydney. We have campuses in Blacktown, Carlingford, Chatswood, Epping, Mt Druitt, Richmond and Ryde. Enrol now!
What you will learn
Course outline
In this workshop you will explore:
- What artificial intelligence is and some of the different types of AI
- What generative AI is and how it differs from other forms of artificial intelligence
- What a Large Language Model (LLM) is
- Where generative AI gets information from
- How generative AI tools use information to respond to questions
- ChatGPT and other current generative AI tools
- How different generative AI products compare
- Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, Claude and other AI tools
- How to ask generative AI useful questions
- Everyday ways you may be able to use generative AI
- Hands-on exploration of selected generative AI tools
- Why generative AI can sometimes provide incorrect information
- AI hallucinations and why responses need to be checked
- Privacy, copyright and other risks associated with generative AI
- Some of the broader issues and debates surrounding artificial intelligence
Because generative AI is developing rapidly, the tools and examples explored in class may be updated to reflect changes in the technology.
Course outcome
After this workshop, you should have a clearer understanding of generative AI and greater confidence exploring AI tools for yourself.
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand some of the major types of artificial intelligence
- Explain in simple terms what generative AI is
- Understand the basic concept of a Large Language Model
- Recognise a range of generative AI tools beyond ChatGPT
- Understand that different AI tools may be suited to different purposes
- Ask generative AI questions and explore its responses
- Identify practical ways generative AI could be used in everyday life
- Recognise some of the limitations and risks of AI-generated information
- Understand why AI responses should be checked rather than automatically accepted as correct
- Feel more confident exploring generative AI independently
What you need to know
Entry requirements
This course is designed for seniors who are curious about artificial intelligence and would like to understand generative AI in a relaxed and practical learning environment.
No previous knowledge of artificial intelligence or generative AI is required.
Basic confidence using the internet and a computer, smartphone or tablet will help you participate in the practical activities.
What you need to provide
- Notepad and pen
- Optional: your own internet-connected laptop, smartphone or tablet if you would like to explore AI tools using your own device
Other information
This workshop is delivered in a computer room and combines tutor demonstrations with practical activities and opportunities to explore generative AI tools.
Generative AI is changing quickly. The specific AI products demonstrated in class may therefore change as new tools and features become available.
This is a relaxed and supportive class. Questions are encouraged and the focus is on helping you understand and explore AI with greater confidence.
About your trainer
David Vasey has worked in the information technology industry since 1979 and has extensive experience helping people develop practical digital skills.
David holds a Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics and Economics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. He also has teaching experience and brings his extensive technology background to the classroom in a practical and approachable way.
David's classes focus on making technology easier to understand and giving learners the confidence to explore digital tools for themselves. In this course, he guides participants through the rapidly changing world of generative AI without assuming prior technical knowledge.