Artificial Intelligence for Civic Organizations

About CSM-STAND

This course was developed with support from the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the Civil Society and Media – Strengthening Together and in New Directions (CSM-STAND). CSM-STAND is a USAID-funded, five-year Leader with Associate (LWA) cooperative agreement implemented  to foster independent civic forces; enhance civic engagement; and build vibrant, resilient, and self-reliant civil society and media sectors that cultivate more pluralistic, democratic societies. CSM-STAND is a Pact-led consortium with leading global, regional, and technical practitioners specializing in different sectors who bring extensive practical experience and knowledge of fundamental principles, key issues, current practices, and emerging trends in the democracy, rights, and governance community. The contents do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to AI for civic actors, focusing on its applications in governance, public safety, and social services. Participants will learn to implement AI ethically and strategically, leveraging its capabilities for greater impact in Civic organizations.

This course is designed for civic leaders, non-profit and NGO staff, public sector professionals, and social innovators. It’s ideal for those looking for AI’s potential to enhance governance, public safety, and social services.

• Understand Fundamental AI Concepts: Grasp the basics of AI, including key concepts, types, and differences between narrow and general AI.
• Recognize AI Capabilities and Applications: Explore AI’s transformative role in governance, public safety, and social services through real-world case studies.
• Utilize AI Tools and Technologies: Get hands-on experience with AI tools, platforms, and technologies accessible to civic actors.
• Prepare an Organization for AI Integration: Learn to assess organizational readiness and develop strategic plans for AI adoption.
• Implement AI in Civic Society Organizations (CSOs): Understand the process of initiating and integrating AI projects while ensuring ethical considerations.
• Stay Updated on Future Trends and Continuous Learning: Explore emerging AI trends and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation within your organization.

No prior experience or specific technical background is required. This course is open to anyone interested in understanding and applying AI within civic society and public sector contexts.

Module 1: Understanding Artificial Intelligence

1. Introduction to AI: Definitions and Key Concepts
2. History and Evolution of AI
3. Types of AI: Narrow AI vs. General AI
4. How AI Works: Basics of Machine Learning and Deep Learning

Module 2: Capabilities and Applications of AI

1. What AI Can Do: Overview of AI Capabilities
2. Real-World Applications: Case Studies in the Public Sector
3. AI in Social Good and Civil Society
4. Ethical Considerations and Responsible AI Use

Module 3: AI Tools and Technologies

1. Overview of AI Tools and Platforms
2. Accessible AI Technologies for Civic Actors
3. Open-Source AI Tools and Their Applications
4. Cloud-based AI Services and Solutions

Module 4: Preparing Your Organization for AI

1. Assessing Organizational Readiness for AI
2. Building an AI Strategy: Goals and Objectives
3. Data Requirements and Management
4. Building or Acquiring AI Expertise for DRG-Focused Civic Organizations

Module 5: Implementing AI in Your CSO

1. Starting Small: Pilot Projects and Testing
2. Integrating AI with Existing Systems
3. Mapping Out Ethics Guidelines
4. Monitoring and Evaluating AI Projects
5. Scaling AI Initiatives for Greater Impact

Module 6: Future Trends and Continuous Learning

1. Emerging Trends in AI
2. Staying Updated with AI Developments
3. Protection/Defense Against Misuse of AI
4. Building a Learning Culture around AI
5. Networking and Collaborations in AI for NGOs