11 websites to learn AI for free

Artificial Intelligence is disrupting many industries and will continue to do so. There is no better time to get abreast of this technology than now, JUSTICE OKAMGBA writes…

A writer, Georgian Weston, explained the significance of AI, saying, “It’s quite reasonable that you want to learn artificial intelligence. The popularity of AI is at its peak and shows no signs of coming down.”

Weston defined AI as: “It is a branch of computer science that focuses on the development of machines and software capable of carrying out tasks that require human intelligence.”

The writer also highlighted the wide-ranging applications of AI, including its use in fintech, healthcare, IoT, marketing, and content creation.
“We all encounter AI applications daily in simple tasks like placing an order online or using ChatGPT for different answers,” Weston wrote on Quora.

Below are expert-recommended platforms to learn AI for free.

 
Arnas Sinkevicius, a seasoned AI enthusiast, highlighted Coursera as a standout platform for AI and machine learning courses.

“Coursera is perhaps the most popular platform for online learning on the Internet,” he said, adding that it offers a wealth of high-quality courses in fields like machine learning, deep learning, and artificial intelligence.

Sinkevicius recommended these courses for beginners and advanced learners alike: Machine Learning by Andrew Ng, which offers a comprehensive introduction to machine learning concepts, including neural networks and regression algorithms.

Another is Neural Networks for Machine Learning, which covers the basics to advanced concepts in neural networks. And Deep Learning Specialisation, which explores artificial neural networks, RNNs, CNNs, and more.

“Coursera also provides credentials upon completion, making it an excellent option for learners who want to showcase their skills,” Sinkevicius stated.

Another user, Sheen Doll, also endorsed Coursera, emphasising that it offers free courses from top universities. While certificates may require payment, learners can still gain valuable knowledge without financial commitment.

Udemy’s extensive catalog also earned a recommendation from Sinkevicius, particularly for those diving into neural networks and deep learning.
He noted that courses like Neural Networks and Deep Learning, which start with foundational concepts like backpropagation and progress to advanced topics like autoencoders and CNNs.

Then, Deep Learning for Machine Learning, which offers a deep dive into deep learning architectures and reinforcement learning algorithms.

“Udemy is one of the fastest-growing platforms for computer science skills,” he said, emphasising its value for beginners.
Social media specialist at Simplilearn, Neha Mishra, introduced their free AI course as an accessible way to get started.

“This course will help you build an understanding of AI concepts and workflows, machine learning, deep learning, and performance metrics,” she stated.

The Simplilearn course is designed to simplify complex AI concepts and empower learners to transition from “mystery to mastery,” Mishra explained.

An AI automation expert, Alan Page, praised the University of Helsinki’s Elements of AI course for its beginner-friendly approach.
“It’s designed for everyone, regardless of your background,” he said. The course covers AI fundamentals without requiring advanced math skills and allows learners to progress at their own pace. With over a million participants, it’s a popular choice for AI newcomers, he stated.

Page also highlighted Google AI for Everyone, a free edX course. “This four-week course introduces you to AI concepts and real-world applications,” he shared. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone curious about how AI is used in practice.

Sheen Doll also noted Google’s contribution, recommending its free tutorials and resources as ideal for hands-on learning.

For those willing to invest more time, Page recommended Harvard’s free course available on edX.

“This seven-week program dives into AI algorithms and includes hands-on projects,” he said. Though challenging, the course provides a solid foundation for learners interested in Python-based AI.

IBM’s AI Foundations for Everyone specialisation on Coursera is another excellent option, offering several structured courses on AI basics and applications. “It’s a great way to learn and even comes with a certificate,” Page added.

Amazon’s **AWS Skill Builder** platform offers over 100 free courses on AI and machine learning. “These courses cover foundational skills and practical applications,” Page noted, making them suitable for both beginners and those seeking hands-on learning.
Sheen Doll pointed out another valuable platform for free learning: Great Learning Academy. This platform not only offers free AI and machine learning courses but also provides certificates upon completion, making it a great choice for learners seeking both knowledge and credentials.

For those who prefer a practical, project-based approach, Sheen Doll suggested Kaggle, a platform offering free datasets and hands-on projects. “These resources are a great way to get started without spending any money,” she added.

Sheen Doll further recommended edX, another platform offering free courses from prestigious institutions. With options for learning from the best universities, edX is ideal for gaining foundational knowledge in AI and machine learning.

Final Thoughts

Learning AI doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re interested in theoretical foundations or practical applications, these free resources provide excellent opportunities to master this transformative technology.

As Arnas Sinkevicius pointed out, “You don’t have any excuses anymore. You can start learning AI for free today.”