Learn about Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life, from technology built into our phones to chatbots like ChatGPT, Copilot and Claude. It can be difficult to understand what AI is and how to use it.
On this page:
What AI is
AI is technology that makes machines and software behave similarly to humans. It uses large amounts of data to learn and offer ideas or solutions.
There are many uses of AI, from custom emojis and music recommendations to data processing and chatbots.
Find a comprehensive overview of AI and types of AI from Coursera.
How AI could help you
There are many things AI can be helpful for. For example, AI can:
- explain things in plain English
- suggest ways to word a letter or an email
- give step-by-step guidance for finding the right page on a website
- translate into another language
It can help with accessibility. For example, AI can:
- use voice control
- read information out loud
- describe what it can see through a camera
Find out more about how AI can help you on the AbilityNet website.
Risks of using AI
There are concerns about using AI. AI can make mistakes or sound confident when it’s wrong. To use AI safely at home:
- always check the results - treat them as a starting point, do not just trust them
- do not share personal or financial details in free AI tools
- check facts with reliable sources
Resources for using AI
If you want to learn more about AI, here are some resources from trusted partners. The resources include information about what AI is, how to use it safely, and how it can support accessibility, learning, and daily tasks.
AI basics
These resources are the perfect place to start for anyone looking to understand the basics of the AI tools that are appearing in everyday life.
The Good Things Foundation
It has a free AI Gateway learning platform, where you can build confidence and practical skills in using AI safely and effectively. You can watch a 2-minute introduction video, or get started with learning in their AI Gateway.
It also has free digital skills training, with AI content for those with low confidence or literacy, in the Learn My Way platform. Register to start learning on Learn My Way.
AbilityNet
This charity provides specialist services and impartial support to create a digital world accessible to all. Find its clear, accessibility-focused guide explaining AI and how it can support independence.
You can also find examples of how AI can help disabled people in the workplace.
BBC Bitesize
The BBC is a go-to resource for many learners. It has useful, easy-to-understand guidance on AI, including:
Get Safe Online
This internet safety website has an article on worrying about AI and what it could mean for you.
You can also find general advice for keeping safe online from Get Safe Online.
Introducing AI to others
These resources support our Digital Champions in introducing AI tools to others, such as family, friends and community groups. Each resource has clear, step-by-step support to help people understand and use AI safely.
Digital Unite
Our trusted provider of training for digital champions, with practical how-to guides and resources. Find out about AI learning with Digital Unite.
There’s also guidance for anyone using ChatGPT.
Get help
If you want to learn more or get help with AI, check out our Digital Support sessions. There are regular, in-person sessions across the borough.