USF launches free online training for AI skills
TAMPA — The University of South Florida is offering a new, free microcourse focused on artificial intelligence. Designed for individuals with no technical background, the short-form program provides practical, flexible and self-paced opportunities for professionals, educators and the general public to build confidence and skills.
AI Whisperer: A Microcourse in Crafting Prompts for Generative AI helps learners discover how to select the right AI tools, craft effective prompts and generate high-quality outputs for use in reports, presentations and visuals.
Available through Feb. 28, 2026, the course is online, self-paced and free, with an optional $39 digital badge available upon successful completion. It takes approximately three to four hours to complete
An earlier microcourse, GenAI in Action: Impact and Possibilities, first launched in 2023 with more than 12,000 worldwide participants. Now, it’s being re-released after a version 2.0 attracted thousands of participants earlier this year. The latest version includes practice assessments, more flexible course progression and curated articles. Participants gain foundational knowledge about GenAI and its current role in multiple disciplines such as writing, research, teaching and learning, along with the tech industry.
It’s online, self-paced, free and available through Jan. 11, 2026. Completion time is about six hours.
Registration for both microcourses, as well as a variety of other programs, is available through the USF Office of Microcredentials.
Public sought to monitor bird health for FWC
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has released an updated version of its Avian Mortality Reporting App, making it easier than ever for the public to help monitor the health of Florida’s wild bird populations.
Each year, FWC biologists investigate reports of bird deaths across the state to track diseases such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, West Nile Virus and Avian Pox. These data are vital to understanding trends, identifying emerging health threats, and protecting both wildlife and public health.
The new app streamlines the reporting process, allowing users to:
• Submit reports directly from a phone or computer using the interactive map at MyFWC.com/AvianHealth.
• Upload photos to help biologists identify the species and evaluate possible causes.
• Select from silhouette guides if you’re unsure of the bird species.
• Provide detailed location information by moving a crosshair to the exact spot where the bird was found.
Public reports help FWC scientists track bird health trends across Florida. While individual responses aren’t always possible, every submission adds valuable data.
SPC hosting ‘debt-free degree’ nights
St. Petersburg College will host several “debt-free degree nights,” where prospective students can get hands-on support with financial aid and learn how to earn a degree without debt.
At these free events, participants can apply to SPC for free and talk with experts about financial aid, scholarships, grants and FAFSA. They also can get hands-on support with SPC scholarships, community scholarships and applications and discover resources and strategies to minimize or eliminate college debt.
The events will be held on the following campuses:
• Thursday, Nov. 6 — Tarpon Springs Campus, 6-8 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 12 — Clearwater Campus, 6–8 p.m.
Attendees should bring:
• Social Security number or alien registration number (if applicable)
• Two forms of Florida ID
• 2024 federal income tax returns, W-2s and records of income
• Bank statements or investment records (if applicable)
• Records of untaxed income or child support (if applicable)
• FSA ID (SPC staff will assist anyone who needs to create one)
Digital versions of these documents are accepted.
For more information and to RSVP, visit Debt-Free Degree Night.
VITAS expands hospice care to Pinellas County
Starting Nov. 3, VITAS Healthcare, the nation’s leading hospice provider, will expand to Pinellas County, bringing compassionate end-of-life care to families in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs.
According to research, only 61% of Medicare decedents in Florida access the Medicare Hospice Benefit. This new program helps close that gap, giving more residents access to 24/7 care, grief support, and specialized services for veterans and cardiac patients.
VITAS is hiring in Pinellas County for a variety of clinical and nonclinical roles, including registered nurses, hospice aides, social workers, chaplains and community representatives.