People-Centred AI 101: New module recommended for all students
Building a shared approach to AI at Surrey
Published:
People-Centred AI 101: New module recommended for all students
AI is impacting the way we live, study, work and solve problems. At Surrey, our approach is clear: AI should support people, strengthen human capabilities, and be developed and used responsibly and inclusively.
Created by Surrey’s Institute for People-Centred AI (PAI) in collaboration with the Digital Learning Team, People-Centred AI 101 is a new self-paced five-week module designed to provide a shared foundation for all University students. It will help you understand what AI is, how it works and why it matters, while introducing Surrey’s vision for AI and the values that guide our approach.
Recommended for all Surrey students, this short course introduces the knowledge and understanding needed to use AI effectively, responsibly, and confidently in your studies. Using examples from Surrey's own research and innovation, you'll explore how AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini work, their opportunities and limitations, and the ethical considerations that come with their use. No technical background is required.
Along the way, you will also discover inspiring “Made in Surrey” examples of how our researchers are applying AI across health, engineering, business, law, creative arts, social sciences and many other disciplines to address real-world challenges.
This module supports Surrey’s wider ambition to embed AI across its degree programmes in ways that are relevant to each discipline. Whatever your subject, People-Centred AI 101 will help you develop the understanding and critical thinking needed to engage confidently with AI in your studies, future careers and lives.
A Shared Vision for AI at Surrey
Professor Annika Bautz, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education), comments: “Our commitment at Surrey is about much more than teaching students how to use new technologies. It is about developing graduates who can apply critical judgement, understand the implications of AI within their discipline, and act responsibly in an increasingly AI-enabled world. People-Centred AI 101 creates a shared foundation of understanding that strengthens Surrey’s position as a leader in people-centred AI education, research and innovation.”
Putting People at the Heart of AI
Elizabeth James, Director of Strategy, Institute for People-Centred AI, comments: “AI is changing many aspects of our lives, but its future should be shaped by people and the values we share. Putting people at the heart of AI means starting by asking who it benefits, how it affects others and how we can use it responsibly. People-Centred AI 101 gives every student at Surrey the opportunity to take part in that conversation and play a part in understanding, questioning and shaping AI responsibly”
By taking part in People-Centred AI 101, you will join a university-wide community exploring how AI can enhance human potential, support positive societal progress and reflect the people-centred values that define Surrey’s approach.
Find out more and join the conversation
For further information about the Institute for People-Centred AI and how to get involved, please contact pai@surrey.ac.uk.