In a significant move to democratize technology education in South Bend, the South Bend Code School has announced a partnership with the St. Joseph County Public Library to host free workshops focused on artificial intelligence (AI) this summer. These workshops are specially designed for adults of all experience levels, ensuring that anyone interested can learn how to use generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT.
Generative AI is a burgeoning field that has often felt inaccessible to those without technical backgrounds. Many individuals hear about artificial intelligence in the media but feel overwhelmed by the technical jargon, believing it to be a domain reserved for “tech people.” However, the upcoming workshops aim to dismantle these barriers. Alexandra Sejdinaj, co-founder of the South Bend Code School, expressed a desire for the sessions to demystify AI for the general public. “People hear a lot about AI but often don’t know where to start or feel like it’s not for them,” she said. “These workshops are designed to change that. We want to make AI tools feel approachable, useful, and even fun.”
The initiative has received additional support from the Amazon St. Joseph Community Fund, making it possible to offer these enriching experiences at no cost. The workshops will be interactive and hosted at the Community Learning Center located at 305 S. Michigan Street in downtown South Bend. Here’s a glimpse into the schedule of events:
Saturday, June 14: Generative AI & Your Career
This workshop will explore how AI is transforming the workplace and how attendees can leverage tools like ChatGPT to their advantage. Scheduled from 1:00–3:00 PM in Classroom C, participants will gain insights into utilizing AI in their professional lives.Saturday, July 12: Learn to Code with Generative AI
No coding experience? No problem! This session invites attendees to use ChatGPT to create their first real project in Python, all without prior coding knowledge. It takes place from 1:00–3:00 PM in Classroom D.- Saturday, August 23: How Can AI Help Me With My Life?
In this workshop, participants will discover the practical applications of AI in everyday life, from planning meals and budgeting to parenting and making significant life decisions. This enlightening session is scheduled from 1:00–3:00 PM in Classroom D.
Given that space is limited, pre-registration is strongly advised. All workshops are free, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit participation. Interested individuals can find the registration link on the South Bend Code School website.
The importance of providing free access to artificial intelligence education cannot be overstated. In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, understanding the capabilities of AI is becoming increasingly vital. From streamlining tasks to enhancing creativity, AI tools like ChatGPT have the potential to significantly improve both personal and professional lives.
By hosting these workshops, the South Bend Code School and St. Joseph County Public Library are actively fostering a culture of learning and inclusivity. This is especially crucial as AI continues to permeate various sectors, underscoring the need for everyone—regardless of technical expertise—to harness these tools.
Beyond the workshops, the partnership embodies a broader vision: to make technology accessible to everyone. By breaking down the common barriers typically associated with learning AI, these sessions will empower a diverse audience, inviting them to engage with new technologies as both creators and consumers.
As the summer progresses, it will be exciting to see how these initiatives encourage community members to explore the world of artificial intelligence. The workshops promise not just to educate but also to inspire curiosity and innovation. By investing in local education opportunities, organizations like the South Bend Code School and St. Joseph County Public Library are paving the way for a brighter, more informed future.
With the rise of AI, understanding its implications is no longer optional; it’s essential. These workshops serve as a gateway for many individuals who may have previously felt left behind in the tech revolution. Join in on this valuable opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills—after all, the future of work and personal life is deeply intertwined with the capabilities of AI.
In conclusion, if you’re in the South Bend area and have ever been curious about how AI could integrate into your life or career, don’t miss this chance. The free workshops offered by the South Bend Code School in collaboration with the St. Joseph County Public Library represent a significant step toward increasing AI literacy in our communities, ensuring that everyone has the tools to navigate the future confidently.