AI Tools and Platforms (MSBB)

AI Tools and Platforms

Description: An exploration of prominent AI platforms and their relevance for business and industry. This course will define a wide variety of AI-powered tools, how they function, and in what industries/professions they are being implemented to improve efficiency, output, and innovation.

Learning Objective: Participants will be able to identify and evaluate prominent AI platforms and tools, understand their core functionalities, and analyze how they are being applied across various industries to enhance efficiency, productivity, and innovation.

The coursework is available on demand and self-paced. Once you register, you will receive a link and code to access the Canvas Learning Platform. Content is structured into 4-week sessions; however, they are work at your own pace so you don't need to rush to complete the material in that timeframe, it will remain available until December 19, 2025.

Courses do include knowledge checks, exercises and “assignments" to practice using tools with guidance. As a professional development course, these are optional activities to apply concepts and test skills. We encourage participation in as much or as little as you like. Essentially, we want you to practice and learn on your terms and preferences.

Course Layout:

• Session 1 – Intro to AI: This session we'll learn the lay of the land when it comes to AI today.
• Session 2 – Intro to AI, Pt. 2: This session we'll continue to examine the nuts and bolts of AI, so you can be better able to understand its strengths and limitations.
• Session 3 – Tools: This session we'll go in-depth with some general-purpose AI tools like ChatGPT.
• Session 4 – More Tools: This session we'll go in-depth with some more general-purpose AI tools like Gemini.
• Session 5 – General-Purpose Tools Wrap-Up: This session we'll wrap up our look at general-purpose tools with examinations of Microsoft Copilot and other tools.
• Session 6 – Specialized Content Tools: This week we'll look at tools for creating content, such as those found in the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Session 7 – Specialized Tools: This week we'll look at tools for specialized applications, like project management and CRM.
• Session 8 – Wrap-Up: This week we’ll wrap up what we’ve learned.

Participant Expectations:

1. Watch recorded meetings in their entirety
2. Complete activities promptly
3. Regularly complete feedback forms

Please only register if you plan to complete the full course so the provided funding can assist as many small business owners as possible.

Fee: $225.00 WEDC will cover registration cost of the class for Main Street Bounceback grant recipients and eligible small businesses who register for and attend the course.