GVSU launches free AI literacy course for community learners
Published February 24, 2026 by Brian Vernellis
A free, online course from Grand Valley will help community learners build a practical understanding of artificial intelligence and how to use it responsibly in their everyday lives.
Powered by GVSU’s OMNI online network, the class offers accessible and flexible learning opportunities for the public, GVSU students, faculty and staff at no cost. Registration opens March 2.
The course, titled “AI Literacy for Life & Work,” is presented through two key digital partners at GVSU — Information Technology and the College of Computing — and will span seven modules. Guided by faculty in the College of Computing, learners will explore core AI concepts, including effective communication with AI, ethical and responsible use and workplace applications.
The course strategically aligns with a new framework released by the U.S. Department of Labor designed to advance nationwide AI literacy in support of workforce and educational development.
“AI is rapidly reshaping how we learn, work and live,” said Marouane Kessentini, dean of the College of Computing. “Through the Blue Dot vision , Grand Valley is committed to leading in applied, ethical and workforce-aligned AI innovation to serve our students, faculty, staff and the community in greater Grand Rapids and beyond.
“As a public university, we have a responsibility to ensure our community is not just consuming AI tools, but understanding them, shaping them and using them responsibly to drive impact across industries and society.”
By the end of the course, participants will understand how AI systems function, evaluate accuracy and potential bias in AI-generated content, examine ethical and environmental implications and develop transferable AI skills applicable to work, learning and daily life.
“This is more than a course; it’s part of a broader vision to build an AI-ready community,” Kessentini said. “By investing in accessible AI education today, we are preparing our region for the opportunities and responsibilities of tomorrow.”
By the end of the course, participants will understand how AI systems function, evaluate accuracy and potential bias in AI-generated content, examine ethical and environmental implications and develop transferable AI skills applicable to work, learning and daily life.
“This is more than a course; it’s part of a broader vision to build an AI-ready community,” Kessentini said. “By investing in accessible AI education today, we are preparing our region for the opportunities and responsibilities of tomorrow.”
“This AI literacy course embodies a central tenet of Grand Valley’s Blue Dot initiative by creating new pathways for our students and the West Michigan community to build essential digital and technology skills,” said Miloš Topić, chief digital officer and vice president for information technology.
“Through Blue Dot, we will expand outreach and connections so that learners across the region can develop the competencies needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.”
