Course Description

This course offers a clear and practical introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) for professionals across sectors. Participants will gain the strategic and hands-on knowledge needed to understand, evaluate, and responsibly integrate AI tools into their organizations. No technical background required—just curiosity, openness, and a desire to make smarter decisions with emerging technologies.

Chapters & Lessons

Chapter 1: Understanding Artificial Intelligence

Learn what AI is, how it works, and why it matters today.

  • Lesson 1.1: Foundations of AI
    Discover the core ideas behind artificial intelligence and clarify what it is—and what it isn't.

  • Lesson 1.2: Key AI Technologies
    Explore the building blocks of AI like machine learning and natural language processing, in simple terms.

Chapter 2: AI in Business and Public Sector Applications

See how AI is already transforming organizations—and how it might help yours.

  • Lesson 2.1: Sector-Specific Case Studies
    Examine real-world examples of AI in action across industries and government.

  • Lesson 2.2: Assessing Readiness for AI
    Evaluate your organization’s capacity to begin working with AI effectively.

Chapter 3: Practical Tools for Working with AI

Get hands-on with leading AI tools and learn to use them strategically.

  • Lesson 3.1: Everyday AI Tools
    Test out popular AI tools (like ChatGPT) and see how they can save time and boost performance.

  • Lesson 3.2: Prompting and Workflow Integration
    Learn how to talk to AI clearly, and how to plug it into your daily work routines.

Chapter 4: AI Strategy and Implementation Planning

Build a road map for responsible and realistic AI adoption.

  • Lesson 4.1: Building an AI Strategy
    Craft a simple AI strategy aligned with your business or policy goals.

  • Lesson 4.2: Change Management and Implementation
    Understand how to lead change, manage risks, and ensure successful adoption across your team.

Optional Module: Indigenous Perspectives on AI

Designed for Indigenous organizations and partners.

  • Lesson 5.1: Technology Sovereignty
    Discuss Indigenous priorities in technology use, data ownership, and ethics.\

  • Lesson 5.2: Community-Led AI Projects
    Explore how Indigenous communities can lead their own AI initiatives and protect cultural values.

 

Course Title: Entryways to Artificial Intelligence
Provider: Sterling Insight Group
Format: Online or In-Person | Modular or One-Day Intensive
Length: 4 Core Modules + Optional Module
Target Audience: Business leaders, analysts, managers, policy professionals, Indigenous governance teams

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will:

  • Understand the fundamentals of AI and its relevance

  • Identify high-value AI use cases for their sector

  • Test and evaluate practical AI tools

  • Build a basic AI strategy and roadmap

  • Apply ethical and inclusive AI principles

  • (Optional) Explore Indigenous-led approaches to AI

Course Materials

  • Digital workbook

  • Toolkits and planning templates

  • Curated resource library

  • Certificate of Completion

Delivery Options

  • One-day workshop (in-person or virtual)

  • Modular online format (6–8 hours total)

  • Custom delivery for Indigenous organizations or sector-specific groups

  • Ontario Skills Development Fund eligible