- Angel Draev
- Ghazi Mabrouk
Introductory
Event Organizer(s)
Funded by
Description
This online self-paced course is part of the broader master course AI governance: fundamentals, which introduces learners to key concepts, challenges, and frameworks shaping the governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
While this course can be taken as a standalone module, it also forms one of five building blocks of the full learning journey. Participants may choose to focus on this specific topic or complete the master course to gain a comprehensive understanding of AI governance. Designed for non-technical audiences, the course equips policymakers, professionals, and civil society actors with the knowledge needed to critically assess AI systems and engage in governance discussions.
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will receive an ITU Academy badge. Learners who complete all five courses and pass the final assessment in the master course will earn an additional ITU Academy badge.
Designed for non-technical participants, this course is ideal for policymakers, regulators, business professionals, civil society organizations, international organizations’ staff, and students looking to understand how AI is shaping societies and economies worldwide. It breaks down complex AI concepts into clear, accessible language, making it easy for participants to grasp the implications of AI without requiring a technical background.
This introductory course provides an overview of AI governance and does not require a specialized background in the subject. However, a keen interest in AI-related legal, regulatory, or policy frameworks is recommended.
Recommended Background
While no formal qualifications are required, participants will benefit from having:
- Professional experience in governance, technology policy, AI development, data protection, or cybersecurity (desirable but not mandatory).
- Familiarity with AI-related regulations or policies or experience in sectors utilizing AI technologies (e.g., healthcare, finance, or digital infrastructure).
- Proficiency in English, as all course materials and assessments will be conducted in English.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Define AI and distinguish it from traditional computing.
- Differentiate among ANI, AGI, and Generative AI.
- Identify AI use cases across different sectors.
- Explain why governance is necessary to ensure that AI serves society fairly.
The course applies an interactive, learner-centered approach tailored to an online, self-paced format. Participants will progress through a mix of learning tools designed to build knowledge, encourage reflection, and link theory with practice.
- Structured Learning: Engaging video lectures, interactive readings, and factsheets introduce and explain core concepts.
- Case-Based Scenarios: Story-driven examples ground abstract principles in real-world dilemmas, helping learners analyze governance challenges.
- Knowledge Checks: Quizzes and quick assessments reinforce understanding, provide instant feedback, and guide learners toward mastery.
- Wrap-Up and Resources: The course concludes with a synthesis of key lessons and curated references for continued learning on AI governance.
This self-paced course employs a balanced and flexible assessment strategy designed to measure both participants’ comprehension of fundamental AI governance concepts and participants’ ability to apply this knowledge in real-world and professional contexts.
Passing Criteria
- A total score of 80% or higher is required to obtain the ITU badge attesting completion.
- Participants must complete all required assignments and quizzes.
This module provides the foundation for the entire learning journey by introducing essential AI concepts and the rationale for governance.
- Uses a learner-friendly, scenario-based approach tailored for non-technical audiences
- Introduces concepts through clear explanations supported by real-world examples
- Includes the story-based activity “Meet AI in Daily Life” to illustrate how AI appears in everyday contexts (healthcare, finance, education, public services)
- Applies narrative storytelling to make abstract AI concepts more relatable and easier to understand
Registration information
Unless specified otherwise, all ITU Academy training courses are open to all interested professionals, irrespective of their race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, economic status and other diverse backgrounds. We strongly encourage registrations from female participants, and participants from developing countries. This includes least developed countries, small island developing states and landlocked developing countries.
