Microsoft and LinkedIn Launch AI Skills Initiative
Introduction
On June 28, 2023, Microsoft and LinkedIn launched the AI Skills Initiative, a certificate program aimed at teaching professionals how to apply generative AI to their work. The program is designed for beginners in generative AI and includes a library of free videos and resources.
What is the AI Skills Initiative?
The AI Skills Initiative is a five-module program developed by Microsoft and LinkedIn. Each module includes a video, and some are supplemented with quizzes, a workbook file, or both. Completing all five modules earns the learner a Professional Certificate in Generative AI, which can be displayed on LinkedIn Learning.
The program focuses on Microsoft’s Copilot instead of its major rival, Google’s Gemini. The Professional Certificate on Generative AI training is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese, and will be free until 2025.
Generative AI Skills are Among Companies’ Top Three Training Priorities
According to the World Economic Forum, more than 75% of companies plan to adopt AI in the next five years. Training employees to use AI and big data is the third-highest company skills-training priority, as highlighted in the WEF Future of Jobs 2023 report. This statistic includes generative AI and related technologies, such as machine learning.
The importance of AI in the workplace is further underscored by Microsoft’s May 2024 Work Trend Index, which found that 75% of knowledge workers use AI at work. However, 53% of people surveyed who use AI at work worry that using it makes them look replaceable.
Upskilling in AI
To address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, Microsoft proposes upskilling in AI to remediate imbalances. One element of skills training unique to generative AI is the practice of prompt engineering.
Unlike other enterprise software, generative AI tools require the user to train the tool itself. Without good prompts, the tool won’t be able to help employees boost productivity in a meaningful way, and increasing productivity is one of the most promising components of generative AI for workers today.
Conclusion
The AI Skills Initiative is an important step in upskilling professionals in generative AI. As the technology continues to evolve, it is essential for companies to prioritize training their employees to use AI and related technologies. The program’s focus on Microsoft’s Copilot and the practice of prompt engineering make it a valuable resource for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.
FAQs
Q: What is the AI Skills Initiative?
A: The AI Skills Initiative is a certificate program developed by Microsoft and LinkedIn, aimed at teaching professionals how to apply generative AI to their work.
Q: What is included in the AI Skills Initiative?
A: The program includes five modules, each with a video, and some are supplemented with quizzes, a workbook file, or both. Completing all five modules earns the learner a Professional Certificate in Generative AI.
Q: Is the AI Skills Initiative free?
A: Yes, the AI Skills Initiative is free until 2025. It is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese.
Q: What is prompt engineering?
A: Prompt engineering is the practice of training generative AI tools to help employees boost productivity in a meaningful way. It is an essential element of skills training in generative AI.
Q: Why is upskilling in AI important?
A: Upskilling in AI is important because it helps companies to stay ahead of the curve and to remediate imbalances in the workforce. It also helps employees to develop new skills and to stay competitive in the job market.
