Description

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world, and at the center of this revolution lies Generative AI — the technology behind ChatGPT, Midjourney, Gemini, Claude, GitHub Copilot, and countless emerging AI tools. With professionals across industries eager to understand and apply GenAI, LinkedIn Learning launched the short yet powerful course “What Is Generative AI?” designed for learners who want a simple, fast, and clear explanation of the technology shaping modern workplaces.

This in-depth review analyzes the course content, delivery style, strengths, limitations, and overall value to determine whether it is truly worth your time.

⭐ Course Overview: What the Course Aims to Teach

The “What Is Generative AI?” LinkedIn Learning course provides a foundational understanding of:

• What generative AI is

• How generative models work

• Key AI concepts like transformers, LLMs, and neural networks

• Everyday applications of GenAI

• Ethical risks and responsible AI usage

• How organizations are adopting AI

• The future impact of GenAI in the job market

The main objective is awareness, not programming or technical mastery.
It’s ideal for professionals who want a high-level, business-friendly explanation of GenAI.

📘 Detailed Course Breakdown

Although the course is short (approx. 40–60 minutes), it is structured into multiple informative segments that explain GenAI in an accessible way.

1. Introduction to Generative AI

This module lays a strong foundation by explaining:

• The difference between traditional AI and generative AI

• How generative models “create” content

• Why GenAI exploded after transformer models were introduced

• The difference between predictive and generative outputs

The instructor uses simple language, making it digestible for non-technical learners.

2. How Generative Models Work

This is one of the most valuable segments for beginners.
It explains the basic mechanics behind GenAI:

• Neural networks

• Training data

• Deep learning layers

• Transformers (the tech behind modern LLMs)

• Tokens and embeddings

• How models learn patterns

The visuals and analogies simplify complex AI functions without overwhelming learners with math.

3. Types of Generative AI Systems

The course categorizes different GenAI technologies and tools:

• Large Language Models (LLMs)

• Image generators

• Speech synthesis models

• Code-generating tools

• Video and audio generation technologies

• Multimodal AI systems

This part helps learners understand how GenAI applies to various fields like design, marketing, automation, and content creation.

4. Real-World Applications of Generative AI

The course highlights how GenAI is currently used in industries:

• Marketing automation

• Design & creative work

• Healthcare

• Customer service automation

• Programming assistance

• Education & personalized learning

• Business intelligence

• HR recruitment & resume analysis

The examples are practical and make it easy to connect GenAI concepts to real workplace scenarios.

5. Ethical Considerations & Risks

One of the course’s strongest components is the emphasis on Responsible AI.

It covers:

• Bias and unfair outputs

• Deepfakes

• Privacy and data misuse

• Security threats

• Misinformation risks

• Job displacement concerns

• Importance of model transparency and human oversight

This is essential knowledge for professionals adopting AI in their organizations.

6. The Future of Generative AI

The concluding module explains how GenAI will impact the future:

• The shift from task automation to creativity augmentation

• New job roles emerging

• Evolution of LLM capabilities

• AI governance and global regulations

• The increasing need for AI literacy

This section provides balanced insights — neither hype-driven nor fear-driven.

🎓 Learning Experience & Course Delivery

✔ Clear, concise language

The instructor breaks down complex ideas using simple explanations and real-world examples.

✔ Visual and conceptual teaching style

The animations and diagrams help beginners understand how models “predict the next word” or “generate images.”

✔ Extremely beginner-friendly

No coding, no math, no technical jargon — perfect for non-technical learners.

✔ Short, modular lessons

The course fits easily into a busy schedule and can be completed in one sitting.

✔ LinkedIn Certificate Included

Learners receive a certificate to showcase on their LinkedIn profile, which adds professional credibility.

👍 Strengths of the Course

1. Perfect for absolute beginners

If you know nothing about AI, this is a gentle starting point.

2. Business-focused explanations

Useful for managers, team leaders, HR, marketing professionals, and executives.

3. Great for career orientation

Helps learners understand how GenAI is impacting future jobs.

4. Compact yet comprehensive

Covers all essentials without overwhelming learners.

5. Strong ethical and practical insights

Responsible AI is a crucial workplace requirement, and this course emphasizes it well.

6. Free with LinkedIn Premium

Many professionals already have access.

👎 Weaknesses / Limitations

1. Very high-level overview (not technical)

Developers, data scientists, or AI engineers may find the content too basic.

2. No hands-on practice

The course doesn’t include:

• Coding

• Prompt engineering practice

• AI tool demonstrations

• Real projects

3. Short duration

While concise, some learners may prefer deeper insights or longer case studies.

4. Not a job-ready certification

This is an introductory awareness course, not a technical specialization.

🧑‍💼 Who Should Take This Course?

✔ Ideal For:

• Managers & decision-makers

• Business professionals

• Non-technical employees

• Students exploring AI

• Marketers & content creators

• HR and L&D professionals

• Anyone curious about AI fundamentals

❌ Not Ideal For:

• Aspiring ML Engineers

• Data Scientists

• Python programmers wanting to build AI models

• Learners seeking practical projects

Those groups will need a deeper, more technical course.

💼 Career Relevance & Outcomes

After completing the course, learners will:

• Understand how GenAI works

• Communicate AI concepts confidently at work

• Identify where to use AI in their business or workflow

• Recognize ethical risks and compliance requirements

• Gain foundational knowledge for advanced AI courses

It is particularly valuable for roles like:

• Product Manager

• Business Analyst

• Project Manager

• HR Manager

• Marketing Strategist

• Customer Success Professional

• Corporate Trainer

• Consultant

⭐ Is “What Is Generative AI?” Worth It?

Yes — it is absolutely worth taking, especially if you want a clear, simple, and fast introduction to the world of generative AI.

✔ What makes it valuable:

• Beginner-friendly explanations

• Practical industry examples

• Ethical and responsible AI coverage

• Quick yet comprehensive overview

• Certificate adds credibility to your profile

❗ What it won’t do:

• Teach coding or AI development

• Make you a GenAI engineer

• Provide hands-on AI projects

But for understanding the foundations, risks, and real-world value of Generative AI, it is one of the best short courses available online.