Getting started with GenAI

In the recent development needs analysis, learning more about AI and algorithmic literacy was the top requirement across all staff groups.

We are looking to offer a number of development opportunities around this topic in the coming months.

As a starting point we asked Hannah Wood in the KM team at NHS England if she could provide us with some pointers to useful resources. Here is what she sent us.

Mirella Lapata’s lecture on genAI (suitable for lay audiences): What is generative AI and how does it work? – The Turing Lectures with Mirella Lapata.

It’s a brilliant 46 minute lecture which covers the basics of what genAI is, and what’s ticking underneath the hood. It’s two years old but the science is still sound. I’d recommend everyone watch it.

Microsoft has a lot of supporting resources: What is generative AI? and Copilot has a built-in library for prompts. The UK Government also has a prompt library: Prompts - AI Knowledge Hub.

The Learning Hub has a bunch of genAI content: Search. Including the Digital Academy’s elearning and something I co-authored with Iain O’Neill, Chris Hill and Adam Byfield about generative AI detection.

In terms of networks, the AI Ambassador Network is great. It’s a national, multiprofessional network that showcases some brilliant uses of generative AI, and other forms of AI too. The chat is usually really good for people to share their work. A lovely, non-judgemental setup, I’ve found it very useful and welcoming in equal measure.

You’ll likely know about the JISCMail - LIS-AI-Literacy List  for NHS KLS folks with an interest in generative AI, or for folks who might have questions about it, and there’s our Current and Emerging Technology in Knowledge and Library Services - Futures page, which folks might find useful.

The Tech bulletin and the KLS Tech bulletin are both excellent ways to keep up to date. HSJ, The King’s Fund, The Health Foundation, Nuffield Trust, NHS Employers/NHS Confederation also have good bulletins and sometimes have free online events – the ones I’ve attended have been good. Generally stuff like that will be shared via our bulletins.

Plus a recommendation from Alison Day - AI Skills Boost - AI Skills Hub. This is a free training skills offer, built by leading industry partners and backed by Skills England and the Department for Science Innovation and Technology. Courses take anywhere from 20 minutes to a day, fit around working life, and teach practical skills you can use straight away – whatever your role or technical background.

Keep an eye out in our Knowledge Services briefings for further opportunities in the coming months.