Microsoft and LinkedIn are taking steps to meet the growing demand for AI skills in the workforce.

Microsoft is launching the AI ​​Skills Initiative through LinkedIn Learning to give people the knowledge and tools they need to leverage AI technology.

Microsoft emphasizes that while AI could improve life and work, people must learn to use AI responsibly and ethically.

The AI ​​Skills Initiative aims to help build that knowledge and prepare people for the future of working with AI.

Microsoft’s free AI training course

Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative includes new, free coursework developed with LinkedIn.

The course provides an introduction to AI and topics related to responsible AI. It is offered in English, with several other languages ​​to follow in the coming months.

Upon completion of the course, you will receive a professional certificate in Generative AI from Microsoft, which you can view on your LinkedIn profile.

Other resources include a trainer toolkit with AI content for educators and a free AI Skills Challenge on Microsoft Learn. The challenge teaches fundamental AI skills using Microsoft technology.

Microsoft promises that coursework will be accessible for free by 2025.

What is inside?

Here is a course breakdown entitled: “Career Essentials in Generative AI from Microsoft and LinkedIn.”

The course includes five instructional videos lasting nearly four hours.

Training videos include:

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
• What is Generative AI?
• Generative AI: The Evolution of Thoughtful Online Search
• Streamline your work with Microsoft Bing Chat
• Ethics in the age of generative AI

Screenshot from: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/, July 2023.

In order to get the professional certificate, you must first complete all the videos. The examination can only be taken after the entire training has been completed.

After passing the exam, you will have immediate access to your certificate. You can then add it to your LinkedIn profile and share it with your network.

Urgent need for AI skills

Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative addresses an urgent skill need that organizations are recognizing.

According to the World Economic Forum, AI skills are the third highest priority in workplace training programs.

Research from Microsoft shows that 70% of people would like AI to handle more of their workload, but 49% fear AI could replace their jobs.

The new AI Skills Initiative is designed to support employees in gaining the knowledge and experience to use AI technologies.

looking ahead

Microsoft’s Skills for Jobs program has reached millions of people worldwide, helping them find new careers in in-demand fields like cybersecurity.

The AI ​​Skills Initiative is the next step in this ongoing effort that promises to bring further innovation and partnerships to the fore.

source: LinkedIn

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