The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) has released findings from a study titled “Incautiously Optimistic,” revealing that Canadians are not fully considering the risks and opportunities associated with AI technology. In response to these findings, Cifar has launched a new free online course called Destination AI, aimed at improving the public’s AI literacy.

AI technologies are increasingly used in decision-making processes that directly affect people’s lives, such as resume screening, healthcare data analysis, and mortgage risk assessment. With AI playing a larger role in daily life and work, CIFAR believes it is essential for all Canadians to have a basic understanding of AI.

Research conducted for the study included analyzing millions of social media posts and online search queries related to AI over several years. The analysis showed that positive discussions about AI outnumbered negative ones by almost a two-to-one ratio. Surprisingly, Quebecers engaged in AI conversations online twice as much as other Canadians.

Canadians are eager to explore and play with new AI tools, but they seem less aware of important considerations such as fairness and bias in AI systems. This lack of awareness is addressed in Destination AI, which offers teachings from global AI experts and covers topics like AI terminology, debunking common AI myths, and highlighting AI’s potential in areas like disease prevention and disaster prediction.

The course also addresses ethical challenges related to AI, including privacy, disinformation, bias, and algorithmic decision-making. It can be completed at an individual pace, takes less than a day to finish, and grants participants a digital certificate upon completion.

The report, “Incautiously Optimistic,” identifies three key action items to promote the responsible use of AI in Canada. These include countering biases in AI systems, increasing AI literacy across the country, and promoting public engagement in policy and regulation development.

CIFAR notes that many global AI tools have been developed through Canadian-led research. The organization believes that an informed public is crucial in demanding responsible and safe deployment of AI technologies. CIFAR sees Destination AI as a step towards fostering an informed AI-literate public.

The free online course, Destination AI, is now available for all Canadians on CIFAR’s website.

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