https://beta.dol.gov/ai-ready
Want to learn about AI? The U.S. Department of Labor is offering a free week-long course on AI literacy, which looks like a fun way to get AI-ready this summer – and you can do it anywhere since it’s all done on your phone through text messages!
The U.S. Department of Labor’s “Make America AI-Ready” initiative is a free, seven‑day AI literacy course designed to help American workers build foundational AI skills without needing a laptop or internet connection.
How It Works
- Access: Text “READY” to 20202 to enroll.
- Format: Entirely delivered via text message — works on any phone, including basic flip phones.
- Duration: 7 days, 10 minutes per day.
- Cost: Free for all participants!
- Content: Bite‑sized lessons and daily challenges aligned with the Department’s AI Literacy Framework.
Curriculum Overview
The course is structured around five pillars of AI literacy:
- Understand AI Principles – Core concepts, capabilities, and limitations.
- Explore AI Uses – Real‑world applications and how AI complements human work.
- Direct AI Effectively – Crafting clear prompts for better results.
- Evaluate AI Outputs – Assessing accuracy, relevance, and iterating on results.
- Use AI Responsibly – Ethical use, data protection, and accountability.
Accessibility & Goals
- Mobile design removes barriers for those without laptops or reliable internet.
- Fits into busy work and school schedules with short, daily sessions.
- Intended as a starting point for AI learning, with follow‑up resources for advanced skills or AI‑related careers.
- Developed through a public‑private partnership with education tech company Arist, aligned with the White House’s AI Action Plan and America’s Talent Strategy.
Why It Matters
U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez‑DeRemer says the initiative ensures every American worker can benefit from the opportunities in the AI‑driven economy. Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling emphasizes it helps demystify AI for the general workforce.
Start now: Text READY to 20202 and complete the 7‑day course to go from AI‑curious to AI‑confident
Learn more: beta.dol.gov
