AI Essentials for Lifelong Learners
Overview
This age-friendly learning program is tailored for lifelong learners looking to explore the world of Artificial Intelligence. Through six (6) courses, learners will be introduced to a variety of AI topics that include AI basics, security concerns, the ethics surrounding AI, and practical applications.These interactive sessions will equip learners with the foundational skills needed to incorporate AI into daily life in ways that are personally relevant, readily implemented, and safety-conscious.
Who should attend?
The knowledge and skills developed through this age-friendly Artificial Intelligence program are ideal for:- Lifelong learners
- Retired professionals
- Anyone interested in exploring Artificial Intelligence in an age-friendly environment
Courses
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Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Course Description
This course introduces the core concepts, history, and vocabulary of Artificial Intelligence in plain, easily-accessible language. Through simple analogies and familiar examples, the topics of AI, machine learning, and Generative AI are unpacked. Learners will explore AI’s historical milestones from early computing to modern chatbots, discussing its presence in everyday tools and reflecting on how it shapes daily life.
Learning Outcomes
- Define Artificial Intelligence in clear, everyday terms
- Recognize key milestones in AI history
- Identify and distinguish basic types of AI systems and AI-enabled tools
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The Role of Data in AI Learning
Course Description
This course discusses how AI systems use data to recognize patterns, make predictions, and improve accuracy. Core topics will include the different types of data, data collection methods, and the importance of data quality. Through a discussion of privacy issues and a local elder care example from the SeeMe Program at Perley Health, learners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of data in AI learning.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe key data types used in Artificial Intelligence
- Explain how AI detects patterns from the data it receives
- Discuss the link between data quality and the reliability of AI outputs
- Identify the risks of biased or incomplete data in Artificial Intelligence
- Relate AI data use to a local Ontario context
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Hobbies, Home, and Health: How AI Fits in Your Daily Life
Course Description
Discover how AI can be incorporated into your daily life, through its roles in health, home automation, and hobbies. This course will highlight tools like AI diagnostics, wearable health monitors, smart home assistants, and creative applications such as AI-generated art or music that can be easily put into practice. Discussions of the benefits of AI for independent living and potential privacy concerns will prepare learners to incorporate AI safely and practically into their lives.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify how AI may be applied in senior healthcare settings
- Describe AI-assisted home automation features
- Recognize the potential applications of AI in creative and leisure tools
- Apply learned concepts to personal needs with an understanding of benefits and risks for daily life
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Staying Safe with AI
Course Description
This course investigates how AI is used to detect and respond to online threats such as phishing, malware, and identity theft. By discussing practical cybersecurity habits alongside AI-powered security tools, learners will be equipped with the skills to navigate online safety concerns effectively.
Learning Outcomes
• Identify major online threats that are commonly encountered in today's digital landscape
• Explain AI’s role in detecting cyber risks
• Apply safe online habits to protect against online threats
• Evaluate secure AI-based tools -
Exploring the Ethics of AI
Course Description
This course will reflect on the ethical frameworks for Artificial Intelligence, including transparency, fairness, and accountability. Discussions of bias in AI, privacy rights, and debates about AI personhood will provide a deeper understanding of the ethical concerns around this rapidly changing field. Through interactive scenarios, learners will have the opportunity to explore how ethical choices are made in AI design and application.
Learning Outcomes
- Define key Artificial Intelligence ethics principles
- Identify bias sources in AI systems
- Discuss privacy and human rights in the use of AI
- Suggest steps for the responsible adoption of AI using ethical reasoning
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AI in Practice: Interactive Learning Module
Course Description
This interactive course provides a guided exploration of AI tools for personal use, health monitoring, and home automation. Through the exploration of directories like Futurepedia and “There’s an AI for That,” participants will be equipped to find and implement tools suited to their individual needs. The concepts of safety, privacy, and ethical use of AI are further reinforced to prepare participants for adoption of AI in their own lives.
Learning Outcomes
- Locate, test, and compare AI tools relevant to personal needs
- Assess Artificial Intelligence tools for their safety and privacy
- Plan for continued AI learning and the application of established evaluation criteria when adopting AI
Program Information
Winter 2026
| AI Essentials for Lifelong Learners | In-class: Tuesday, January 13 to Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. |
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Winter 2026
| Registration fee | Registration status |
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| $200 CAD + HST (with seniors discount) |
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This is an open enrolment course.
Those completing Ontario Tech University Continuous Learning open enrolment offerings (e.g. certificate programs, courses, workshops, microcertifications, etc.) are subject to the policies of Ontario Tech University and Continuous Learning. Ontario Tech policies can be found in the Policy library. Continuous Learning policies can be found in the Regulations section of the Continuous Learning website. Specifically, those completing open enrolment offerings are expected to adhere to the General and Open enrolment regulations.