The Universities of Wisconsin (UW) system has created a free online video series intended to give the public basic information about artificial intelligence (AI). Created in partnership with the UW Credit Union, the AI Skills Access Passport (ASAP) offers a starting point for people who want to learn the fundamentals about how AI works.
Aimed at adults, the seven videos—each about two minutes in length—explain how AI is being used, its strengths and weaknesses, and some of the risks it poses. Below is a synopsis of each episode: [links to episodes are embedded in descriptions below]
Episode 1: What AI Actually Does. AI generates content by predicting patterns, enabling new text, images, and audio. Powerful but imperfect, it requires user judgment to verify accuracy.
Episode 2: Where You’ll See AI. AI-created articles, images, audio, and deepfakes are widespread. Stay safe by verifying sources and using safeguards such as family code words.
Episode 3: Good Uses for AI. AI supports brainstorming, drafting, and learning by offering options and explanations. It’s a thinking aid, not a replacement for personal judgment.
Episode 4: How to Get Better Answers. AI gives better answers when you provide specifics, refine responses, and rephrase questions. Treat it like a conversation where clearer direction leads to better results.
Episode 5: Protect Your Information. Never share personal, sensitive, or identifying information with AI. Protect passwords, documents, photos, and family details. When uncertain, leave such information out entirely.
Episode 6: AI Makes Mistakes. AI can produce confident but incorrect answers, called hallucinations. Always verify important information using trusted sources before acting on anything AI provides.
Episode 7: Understanding AI’s Limits. AI can help you prepare, but it cannot decide. For health, legal, or financial decisions, rely on licensed professionals and remember AI’s limitations and safety rules.
The seven episodes give participants a well-rounded foundation, enabling them to engage with AI tools confidently.