Elements of AI

Introduction

The Elements of AI is a free online course developed to make artificial intelligence understandable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. It was created through a collaboration between the University of Helsinki and MinnaLearn. The course aims to educate people about what AI is, what can (and can’t) be done with it, and how it affects our lives.

Course Structure

The course is divided into two main sections:

1. Introduction to AI
   This part explains the basic concepts of AI, its uses, limitations, and its impact on society. No programming or mathematical background is required, making it ideal for first-time learners.

2. Building AI
   Designed for learners who want a deeper understanding of how AI works, this part introduces the algorithms and methods behind AI systems. Some basic familiarity with programming (like Python) is helpful but not required.

Each module combines short readings with interactive exercises and real-world examples. Learners progress at their own pace and complete quizzes, written assignments, and peer reviews along the way.

Global Reach

The course has been taken by over one million people from more than 170 countries. It is especially notable for promoting gender diversity—around 40% of its participants are women, a figure significantly higher than in typical tech courses.

Elements of AI is available in over 20 languages, making it widely accessible to a global audience.

Government and Institutional Support

The course is supported by several governments, most notably Finland’s, which made it a national goal to educate at least 1% of its population about AI. This model has been adopted by other countries seeking to promote public understanding of digital technologies.

Accessibility and Certification

Elements of AI is completely free and open to anyone interested in learning. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate. In Finland, students can even earn academic credit through the Open University system.

Conclusion

Elements of AI provides a practical and approachable way to understand artificial intelligence. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply curious, it offers a comprehensive introduction without requiring any prior technical expertise. The course serves as a model for how educational institutions and governments can collaborate to build digital literacy at scale.