What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? - Southwell Library - Adult Learning

This course is designed for adults who are curious about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and would like to understand how it is being used in everyday life. It offers an accessible introduction to AI in a supportive learning environment, helping you build confidence with this rapidly developing technology. You will explore what AI is, how it works in simple terms, and where it is commonly used, from search engines and smart assistants to online services and creative tools.

The course will examine both the benefits and limitations of AI, as well as some of the ethical and practical considerations surrounding its use. The session is delivered at a comfortable pace with clear explanations, demonstrations, and opportunities to explore a range of AI-powered tools. You will learn how AI can support everyday activities while developing an understanding of how to use it responsibly and critically.

By the end of the course, you will have a greater awareness of Artificial Intelligence and feel more confident discussing and using AI technologies in your daily life. 

Learning outcomes:
• Understand the basic principles of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Identify common examples of AI used in everyday life

• Explore the benefits, limitations, and potential risks of AI technologies

• Use selected AI tools safely and responsibly for simple tasks

 Entry requirements:
You should have basic computer skills, such as using a mouse and keyboard and accessing the internet. This course is suitable for learners with little or no previous knowledge of Artificial Intelligence. 

What to bring:
You may wish to bring a notebook and pen to take notes. Laptops will be available to borrow.

Funding and Fees

If you receive certain benefits, you may be able to take the course for free.
If money is stopping you from enrolling, please visit our funding page to see what help is available.

Living in England

To book and join one of our courses, you must live in England permanently and either:

• Live inside the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) area (Nottinghamshire or Derbyshire)

or

• Live outside the devolved areas listed below

You cannot enrol if you live in these devolved areas:

• Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)

• Liverpool City Region Combined Authority

• North East Combined Authority

• South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority

• Tees Valley Combined Authority

• West Midlands Combined Authority

• West of England Combined Authority

• West Yorkshire Combined Authority

• Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority

• York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority

• Hull and East Yorkshire

• Greater Lincolnshire

• Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority

• Cornwall Council

• Lancashire Combined County Authority

• Buckinghamshire Council

Residency Requirements (Additional Information)

If you live in the UK on a visa, we’ll need evidence of your visa to confirm funding. You can upload this when applying, and you’ll need to complete a short questionnaire.

Some exceptions include:

• Your visa must last until after your course ends.

• Asylum seekers must have lived in the UK for at least 6 months while their claim is being processed.

• You are supported by your local authority under Section 23C or 23CA of the Children Act 1989, or under the Care Act 2014.

Anyone who does not meet the funding criteria would need to pay full course fees.