Introduction to AI Program (Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals) $49 Hybrid program

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) ($49) 

February 2, 2025 - April 4, 2025 : M/W 6-8pm

Hybrid Program: Online, and at San Mateo Adult School, 789 E Poplar Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401.

*This course is accessible only to students who live in the San Francisco Bay Area*

Why AI Skills Matter for Your Future

Learning about AI is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. AI is transforming industries—from healthcare to finance to entertainment—creating a wealth of opportunities for those with the skills to harness its power. By gaining a foundational understanding of AI, participants in this program will be better equipped to enter or advance in the job market, where AI-related skills are increasingly in demand. This knowledge not only opens doors to cutting-edge careers but also empowers individuals to contribute to innovations that can shape the future.

Cañada College Continuing Education and San Mateo Adult & Career Education (San Mateo Adult School) have partnered to offer the Intro to AI Certificate Program, taught by instructor Anthony Garcia. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a six-week course focusing on the foundational concepts of AI and its practical applications in the job market. This course will include a brief history of AI, an introduction to basic concepts and terminologies, quizzes, demonstrations, and hands-on exercises on how AI can be effectively used for writing, researching, and image generation for professional career development. This course will also cover the ethical considerations and future applications of AI, and students will be tasked with completing research assignments on these topics.

*This course is accessible only to students who live in the San Francisco Bay Area*

Class Schedule Breakdown

Please read over the class schedule breakdown carefully, as some dates have switched modality due to campus closures**

San Mateo Adult & Career Education will be enforcing state standard sanitary protocol and procedures to accommodate a safe and sterile computer lab experience for the students. The in person sessions are mandatory for completion of the certificate.

Class meeting Dates 

Monday 2/24 - In person @ San Mateo Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 2/26- Online via Zoom

Monday 3/3 - In person @ San Mateo Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 3/5 - Online via Zoom

Monday 3/10 - In person @ San Mateo Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 3/12 - Online via Zoom

Monday 3/17 - In person @ San Mateo Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 3/19 - Online via Zoom

** Monday 3/24 - Online via Zoom**

Wednesday 3/26 - Online via Zoom

Monday 3/31 - In person @ San Mateo Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 4/2 - Online via Zoom

Please contact Lynette Garcia at: lgarcia@smuhsd.org with any concerns regarding the in person section

Student Requirements

• Be fluent in conversational English

• Must be able to travel for lab sessions located in San Mateo, CA at 789 E Poplar Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401 on scheduled class days.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with using a computer, browsing the internet, and basic software applications.

• Educational Background: While a specific degree might not be necessary, a high school diploma or equivalent could be beneficial for understanding the course content.

• Access to Technology: A reliable internet connection and access to a computer or laptop capable of running the software tools and platforms used in the course. A tablet or smartphone may be sufficient for some components but limited for others.

• Time Commitment: Ability to commit to the duration of the course, including attending classes (if live sessions are part of the course) and completing assignments or projects on time.

• Willingness to Participate: Engagement in discussions, group work, and hands-on exercises to maximize learning outcomes.

Technical Requirements & Specs

• A computer running a compatible web browser (see below)

• Stable Internet connection (video interaction is not available offline)

• Speakers/headphones, microphone, and web-camera to hear audio from a computer (videos have subtitles as an alternative) 

• Lessons can be completed on any desktop computer, smart phone, or tablet

• Students will also need to ensure they have permission to download the Zoom app to the computer (e.g., if using a loaner or shared computer such as in a library) Supported Web Browsers Google Chrome and Firefox

• Performance will be suboptimal on Internet Explorer; Windows users should download Chrome or use Microsoft Edge (included in Windows 10)

Questions about registration? Please email Program Coordinators

Mercedes White: whitem@smccd.edu

Lynette Garcia: lgarcia@smuhsd.org