Ask AI researched the best free courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning offered by Canadian organizations. These learning opportunities are ideal for individuals looking to add new skills to boost career resilience
Updated: December 2024
Free Introductory AI Courses
Organization: Eco Canada
Audience: Anyone
Type: Online
Focus: AI technology
Level: Introductory
Certification: No
Overview: Designed for those curious about artificial intelligence or looking to sharpen this tech skills. This comprehensive course will help you understand AI’s core concepts, cutting-edge technologies, and ethical considerations. Embark on a journey through foundational knowledge, real-world applications, and hands-on projects.
Name: Destination AI: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Organization: CIFAR
Audience: Anyone
Type: Online
Focus: AI technology
Level: Introductory
Certification: No
Overview: CIFAR, the world-renowned Canadian high-tech research organization, offers this beginner-friendly course is designed to introduce learners to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence. The goal of part 1is to demystify AI, helping students understand what it is, and what it isn't. Part 2 dives into how AI is shaping the workplace and influencing Canadian society. To wrap it up, in Part 3, learners are taken on a journey behind the scenes of an AI project, introducing concepts like deep learning and machine learning. For AI/ML newbies, this exciting learning adventure is highly recommended.
Organization: University of Guelph Centre for Advancing Responsible and Ethical AI
Audience: Anyone
Type:
Focus: AI technology and ethics
Level: Introductory
Certification: No
Overview: This free, self-paced online course is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of key concepts in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Completing this course will also help you navigate the ethical issues surrounding AI use and encourage you to explore next steps as they relate to your career.
Name: AI Ethics and Governance
Organization: INQ Consulting
Audience: Anyone
Type:
Focus: AI Ethics
Level: Introductory
Certification: No
Overview: This free course, co-developed by Canadian learning technology company D2L and Toronto-based INQ Consulting offers a free Introduction to AI Ethics and Governance. The goal is to help learners build a greater understanding of AI technology and bring their organizations one step closer to responsible AI governance.
Name: AI for Teachers
Organization: University of British Columbia
Audience: K-12 Teachers
type:
Focus: AI in the classroom
Level: Introductory
Certification: Yes (via $15 CAD track)
Overview: This compelling course created by the University of British Columbia offers K-12 teachers and other educators an exciting opportunity to prepare for the ever-evolving landscape of technology and education. In an era where computers are continually advancing in problem-solving capabilities, students are transitioning into the role of adept problem finders and definers, bridging the gap between the real world and computer-driven solutions. This course empowers educators to navigate the AI revolution and gain invaluable insights and skills.
Organization: Vector Institute
Audience: Mothers on maternity leave
Type: Online
Focus: Machine Learning fundamentals
Level: Intermediate
Certification: Yes
Overview: This free 6-week online course has been specially designed for stay-at-home caregivers on parental leave who have basic knowledge of linear algebra, calculus, and probability plus fundamental coding skills (including variables, libraries, arithmetic operations, loops, conditionals, and functions). The course focuses specifically on computer vision and natural language processing, and learners get access to valuable mentorship opportunities for career growth with leading AI-driven companies and engaging career and research talks delivered by Vector's renowned researchers and business leaders. Upon successful program completion, financial childcare support is provided, along with a professional development certificate. This program is made possible through generous contributions from CIFAR and the Vector Institute to assist with childcare expenses.
Organization: Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)
Audience: Post-secondary students, Employers
Type: Online and in person with work experiecne
Focus: Machine Learning technology and basic coding
Level: Intermediate
Certification: Yes
Overview: The the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) initiative which to post-secondary students from diverse academic backgrounds. WIL has been designed to aid employers in expanding their businesses by hiring post-secondary students while taking advantage of a wage subsidy. The initiative includes professional development opportunities through Canadian-focused online micro-courses, including topics like artificial intelligence. Participants have the flexibility to complete the program at their own pace, dedicating 1-2 hours per week over a span of up to 12 weeks. There are no costs associated with student participation and the majority of employers accommodate students by permitting them to complete online courses during their regular working hours.
Free Intermediate & Advanced AI Courses
Name: Machine Learning for black & indigenous graduate students
Organization: Vector Institute
Audience: Black and indigenous post-secondary students
Type: Online
Focus: Machine Learning technology and basic coding
Level: Intermediate
Certification: Yes
Overview: This course, designed specifically for black and indigenous post-secondary students, offers a thrilling exploration of machine learning. Over a span of 9 weeks, participants will acquire market-ready skills in model-building, optimization techniques, and other essential machine learning concepts. This online course is entirely free and boasts a comprehensive curriculum, including common algorithms like linear and logistic regression, decision trees, neural networks, and more. With 2 hours of weekly lectures and workshops, complemented by hands-on tutorials, students can apply their knowledge effectively. This unique learning opportunity is offered by Toronto's esteemed Vector Institute, making it a fantastic chance to thrive in the dynamic world of machine learning.
Offer a free course in AI?
Organizations offering free online or in-person training in artificial intelligence are invited to email a short summary plus link to info@askai.org to be considered for inclusion in this post.
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