May 16th 2024.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly expanding its capabilities and availability, with tools like Open AI transforming the digital landscape on a global scale. As this technology continues to evolve, there is a growing concern about how it will impact the average person and their place in this new digital world.
One of the major discussions surrounding AI is its potential impact on economic mobility, particularly within the Black community. A recent study by the McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility delved into the potential effects of AI on widening the racial wealth gap.
In an effort to promote racial equity and economic opportunity for historically overlooked communities, Google has launched two new initiatives. On April 26th, they unveiled the AI Essentials Course and the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund.
Maya Kulycky, Google Research's vice president of strategy and operations, explains, "Research has shown that employers are increasingly seeking candidates with AI skills, but not everyone has access to AI training. That's why we created the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund, to make AI training more widely available throughout the United States. Through this fund, we are providing grants to organizations such as Goodwill, who have a strong presence in local communities and a proven track record of helping diverse workers upskill."
The AI Essentials Course, developed by AI experts, offers foundational AI skills for a flat fee of $49. It focuses on best practices and responsible use of AI, equipping participants with the knowledge to enhance productivity and decision-making in various industries. Google's goal with this course is to expand economic opportunities for individuals and communities alike.
Kulycky emphasizes, "This course serves as a great starting point for anyone looking to learn about generative AI and how to use it effectively and responsibly." The online course can be completed in under 10 hours and provides practical, hands-on experience through videos, readings, and interactive exercises. These skills can be applied to all generative AI tools.
"For example, if you're a marketer, you can use the course to develop a marketing plan, gather audience insights, and generate creative content ideas," Kulycky explains. "Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate from Google that they can share with their professional network."
In addition to the AI Essentials Course, Google has also launched the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund, with the aim of providing free AI training across a diverse range of industries. This initiative specifically targets underrepresented groups, including Black, Latinx, Indigenous, AAPI, people with disabilities, rural residents, and veterans. The ultimate goal is to democratize AI education and foster widespread engagement with technology.
At the core of these initiatives is Google's belief that everyone should have access to the opportunities created by technology. Kulycky states, "We are committed to making digital skills training available to all communities in the United States, regardless of their zip code or background."
"Providing AI training to diverse workers is crucial in leveling the playing field and ensuring that everyone can benefit from the economic opportunities that AI presents," she adds.
The racial wealth gap in America is a pressing issue, with Black Americans currently holding only 38 cents of every dollar of new household wealth, despite making up 13% of the population. If this trend continues, projections suggest that by 2045, the racial disparity in new wealth generated by AI could widen the wealth gap between Black and white households by $43 billion annually.
Google hopes that their new AI initiatives will help address any fears or concerns within the Black community about the growth of AI. "When people begin using AI technology, they see how beneficial, assistive, and helpful it can be in their everyday work," Kulycky explains. "But often, when people haven't had the opportunity to learn about a new technology, they may feel uncertain and apprehensive. We believe that our AI Essentials course and AI Opportunity Fund will help break down these barriers and make AI more accessible to all, so that everyone can benefit from it."
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