Training and Professional Development

  • 3/31 AI Safety Literacy: From Awareness to Action

    AI Safety Literacy: From Awareness to Action 
    March 31, 11:00 – 12:00 

    Aidan Kierans, Kelcey Davis, Tina Huey 

    Online - link will be sent to registered participants 

     

    Join us for an engaging seminar focused on understanding and addressing the challenges of AI safety. This program, based on the popular AI Safety Fundamentals courses developed by BlueDot Impact, is designed for faculty and instructors across disciplines who want to develop a foundational understanding of advanced AI systems and their potential impacts. After the initial seminar there will be an optional learning community meeting 4 Mondays in April.  

     

    What is it about? 

    This program explores the technical foundations, current capabilities, and potential trajectories of AI systems, with special emphasis on safety considerations across disciplines. Through facilitated discussions and curated resources, participants will examine how AI might transform society, the risks it poses, and how academic research can contribute to safer outcomes. Facilitators include BEACON founders and PhD candidates Aidan Kierans and Kelcey Davis, and Tina Huey, Associate Director, CETL Faculty Development. 

     

    What will people do? 

    • Participate in an initial seminar with presentations and interactive activities 

    • Join an optional learning community to deepen understanding and explore disciplinary connections 

    • Engage with curated materials and collaborate on potential research initiatives 

     

    Learning Objectives 

    By participating, you will be able to: 

    • Explain key technical concepts behind modern AI systems to non-specialists 

    • Critically evaluate claims about AI capabilities and potential impacts 

    • Identify specific AI safety concerns relevant to your academic discipline 

    • Articulate the difference between near-term and long-term AI safety considerations 

    • Develop preliminary ideas for integrating AI safety concepts into your teaching or research 

    • Connect with funding opportunities, potential collaborators, and resources for student research in AI safety 

     

    No prior AI expertise is required—just curiosity and openness to exploring this rapidly evolving field. 

    The optional AI Safety Learning Community will meet online, Mondays, April 7, 14, 21 and 28, 11:00 - 12:00. Readings for the learning community will include: