AI Skills for All

Google prepares students and educators for the AI-powered future of work

BY DR. SHANIKA HOPE

THE RAPID EVOLUTION of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI and related tools, has ushered in an era of unprecedented technological change. Google has long been committed to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate this new landscape, and has deeply invested in providing equitable access to computer science (CS) education and technical skills for over a decade. We recognize that CS continues to be foundational to AI education and skill development and believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn about AI, regardless of their background or experience.

Our commitment to equitable CS education is exemplified by initiatives like CS First, Code Next, and Tech Exchange, which have introduced and supported millions of students in advancing coding and computing skills. Additionally, our long-standing partnerships with organizations like Code. org, CSTA, and the Kapor Center further bolster the ecosystem’s efforts to expand access to CS education in schools worldwide. Through these efforts, we aim to inspire the next generation of innovators and creators, equipping them with the tools and skills to shape the future.

As AI continues to advance, it’s essential that we not only focus on students but also support the educators who play a vital role in shaping their learning experiences. To this end, we have launched several initiatives aimed at providing educators with the resources and training they need to understand AI concepts and utilize the tools themselves. Earlier this year, we created the self-paced Generative AI for Educators course, in collaboration with the MIT RAISE, that offers educators an opportunity to learn how to save time and enhance student learning with generative AI tools.

In addition to our focus on formal education, we also recognize the importance of upskilling and reskilling workers. We are committed to making AI education accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. Through our Google Career Certificates program, we offer affordable, flexible online training in high-demand fields like data analytics and cybersecurity. Earlier this spring, we announced a new Google Career Certificate specifically on Google AI Essentials as part of Google.org’s $75M AI Opportunity Fund in the U.S. AI Essentials helps learners stay ahead of the AI learning curve and teaches skills like prompt engineering and how to use AI responsibility and productively.

We also know that the apprenticeship model is a key way to reduce skills gaps and help workers enter AI-powered and high-demand fields, so we’ve invested in a robust apprenticeships program since 2017, fostering opportunities and increasing access for workers, while developing talent for a broader global workforce.

We believe that our ongoing efforts to promote CS education, support educators, and provide upskilling opportunities are essential to ensuring that everyone can benefit from the transformative power of AI. By democratizing access to AI education and fostering a skilled and diverse workforce, we can help shape a future where AI serves as a force for good, driving innovation and creating new opportunities for all. n

Dr. Shanika Hope is director of CS impact and outreach at Google.