Renewed Ambition’s AI Basics is a free, self-paced workforce readiness course. In 7 short lessons you will learn what AI is, start with the two easiest tools — ChatGPT and Claude — then explore tools like Gemini that fit your own goals. Every lesson uses plain language, real examples from people coming home and starting over, and a quick check so you know you have got it.
Course at a glance
| Length | 7 lessons, about 30–45 minutes each — go at your own pace |
| Format | Online on your phone or computer, or in a Renewed Ambition class |
| Who it’s for | People coming home from prison, residents in transitional housing, job seekers, families, youth, and anyone who wants to get comfortable with AI |
| Cost | Free |
| You earn | Renewed Ambition’s AI Basics Certificate of Completion (workforce readiness) |
How the course builds (step by step)
| Step | Lesson | You will be able to… |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | What Is AI? Start Here | Understand what AI is in plain words, where you already see it, and why it matters for your future. |
| 2 | Your First Two Tools: ChatGPT and Claude | Set up and safely use ChatGPT and Claude, the two best tools to learn first. |
| 3 | Talking to AI: How to Ask Good Questions | Write clear requests (prompts) that get useful answers on the first or second try. |
| 4 | AI for Real Life: Reentry, Work, and Daily Living | See how AI can help with the real needs of people coming home, in transition, or supporting someone who is. |
| 5 | Beyond the Basics: Gemini and Tools That Fit Your Goals | Explore more AI tools and pick the ones that match your interests and future plans. |
| 6 | Using AI Responsibly: Safe, Honest, and Smart | Protect your privacy, check AI answers, use AI honestly, and stay within your supervision terms. |
| 7 | Your AI Action Plan and Final Check | Build a personal plan for using AI in your daily life and future goals, and finish the course. |
How each lesson works
- Learn: a short plain-language reading.
- Try it: a hands-on practice with a real AI tool.
- Check yourself: 3 quick questions (tap to see the answers).
- Mark complete: submit the short check-in at the bottom of the page so staff can track your progress.
Why learn AI now
- Employers expect basic tech skills — AI is the newest one.
- It helps you catch up fast after time away.
- It makes paperwork, planning, and studying easier.
- It is free to start and works on a phone.
Renewed Ambition is not affiliated with OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Microsoft, or any tool named in this course. Tool features and free plans change often.