Basics of AI – Foundation Course

Course Title:

Basics of AI – Foundation Course

Course Positioning:

A foundation course that prepares you for all upcoming AI-integrated finance and accounting courses.

Module 1: Understanding Artificial Intelligence

1. What is AI – Explained in Simple Words

2. Difference Between AI, Automation, and Machine Learning

3. How AI Thinks and Learns from Data (Concept Only)

4. Everyday Examples of AI Around Us (Email, Banking, Voice Assistants)

5. AI in Accounting and Finance – Early Applications

Outcome: Learners understand what AI means, how it works conceptually, and why it’s important in modern business.

Module 2: AI Tools and Their Uses

1. Overview of Common AI Tools – ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Claude

2. What Text-Based AI Tools Do (Chat, Write, Analyze, Summarize)

3. What Workflow or Automation Tools Do (like n8n, Zapier – Just Awareness)

4. How AI Integrates with Office Tools (Excel, Docs, Email, ERP)

5. AI Tools in Accounting and Finance – Where They Fit

Outcome: Learners become familiar with today’s main AI tools and their roles in professional tasks.

Module 3: Getting Started with ChatGPT (Practical Awareness)

1. What is ChatGPT and How It Works

2. How to Create an Account and Start a Chat

3. How to Write a Good Prompt (Clear, Context, Tone, Goal)

4. Prompt Examples for Accounting, Finance, and Office Tasks

5. Using ChatGPT for Writing, Reports, and Data Insights (Concept Only)

Outcome: Learners understand how ChatGPT works and how to communicate effectively with it for simple tasks.

Module 4: Smart Prompting and Real Use Cases

1. What is a Prompt and Why It Matters

2. Types of Prompts – Questions, Commands, Role-Based Prompts

3. How to Give Context for Better Answers

4. Examples:

   • “Explain this in simple terms”

   • “Summarize this report in 3 lines”

   • “Generate ideas for financial analysis”

5. Common Prompt Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Outcome: Learners develop confidence in writing effective prompts and getting useful AI outputs.

Module 5: Responsible and Smart Use of AI

1. Limitations of AI – It Can Make Mistakes

2. Checking AI Outputs for Accuracy and Bias

3. Data Privacy – What Not to Share with AI Tools

4. Ethics and Responsible Use in Professional Work

5. Preparing for Next Steps – AI in Accounting & Finance

Outcome: Learners understand AI’s boundaries, data safety, and are ready to apply AI responsibly in upcoming courses.