USF launches free online training for AI skills<\/p>\n
TAMPA \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n
An earlier microcourse, GenAI in Action: Impact and Possibilities, first launched in 2023 with more than 12,000 worldwide participants. Now, it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
It’s online, self-paced, free and available through Jan. 11, 2026. Completion time is about six hours.<\/p>\n
Registration for both microcourses, as well as a variety of other programs, is available through the USF Office of Microcredentials.<\/p>\n
Public sought to monitor bird health for FWC<\/p>\n
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\u2019s wild bird populations.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The new app streamlines the reporting process, allowing users to:<\/p>\n