« Top 10 Free Platforms and Courses to Start Learning AI in 2024 »

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries and daily life, making it one of the most exciting fields to study. But where can you get started, especially if you’re looking for free options? Here’s a list of the top 10 free platforms and courses that will guide you in building AI knowledge step-by-step, from beginner to advanced levels.

1. Coursera: AI For Everyone and Machine Learning by Andrew Ng

• Why It’s Great: Andrew Ng’s courses are some of the most recommended AI courses worldwide. « AI For Everyone » explains AI’s basics and applications without complex math, making it accessible to anyone. Meanwhile, his « Machine Learning » course provides a deeper look at machine learning techniques.
• Link: AI For Everyone

2. edX: Artificial Intelligence by Columbia University

• What You’ll Learn: Columbia University’s course introduces you to AI concepts like search algorithms, logic, and problem-solving techniques, which are foundational for building AI systems.
• Why It’s Popular: This is a full introductory course from a top university that’s entirely free.
• Link: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

3. Google AI: Machine Learning Crash Course

• Highlights: Google’s Machine Learning Crash Course (MLCC) is an interactive journey through machine learning basics, including real-life applications. The course also introduces Google’s machine learning library, TensorFlow.
• What’s Cool About It: Designed by experts at Google, it’s suitable for all experience levels, especially if you want a hands-on approach.
• Link: ML Crash Course

4. Fast.ai: Practical Deep Learning for Coders

• What You’ll Do: Fast.ai’s course focuses on deep learning, with a « code-first » approach, meaning you’ll build neural networks right away. It’s great for people with some programming knowledge.
• Why It’s Unique: You don’t need advanced math skills to start, and you’ll learn by doing, making it a popular choice.
• Link: Fast.ai

5. Kaggle: Learn AI and Data Science through Real-World Projects

• Overview: Kaggle offers short courses on data science, machine learning, and computer vision, along with thousands of datasets for practice.
• Why It’s Loved: Kaggle’s courses let you practice on real data, so you can build a portfolio and participate in competitions with other learners.
• Link: Kaggle Learn

6. Microsoft Learn: AI Fundamentals

• Focus: Microsoft’s free courses cover AI basics, machine learning, and data analysis, and you can also learn how to use Microsoft’s cloud platform, Azure.
• Best For: Those looking to work with Microsoft’s tools and cloud services. Microsoft’s clear tutorials make it beginner-friendly.
• Link: Microsoft Learn

7. OpenAI Research and Learning Hub

• Learning Style: OpenAI offers resources like blogs, tutorials, and research papers on AI trends and concepts. It’s a valuable resource if you’re interested in AI’s latest advances.
• Best For: Advanced learners who want to keep up with AI developments or explore topics like natural language processing.
• Link: OpenAI Learning Hub

8. YouTube: AI Channels for Visual Learning

• Top Channels:
  • Two Minute Papers: Quick, engaging reviews of the latest AI research.
  • 3Blue1Brown: Visually explains complex math and machine learning concepts.
  • Sentdex: Detailed Python tutorials on AI, machine learning, and more.
• Why Choose YouTube: YouTube offers a vast range of free content from beginner to expert level, and you can see real-time examples.

9. MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW): Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals

• Course Content: This MIT course covers AI basics like search algorithms, machine learning, and reasoning, taught by world-class professors.
• What’s Cool: It’s an in-depth, university-level course available free to the public.
• Link: MIT OCW AI Course

10. DeepLearning.AI: Introduction to TensorFlow for AI

• What You’ll Learn: This course is perfect if you want to learn TensorFlow, one of the most widely used libraries for building AI models.
• Who It’s For: This course is for beginners interested in machine learning, deep learning, and building AI applications using TensorFlow.
• Link: DeepLearning.AI TensorFlow Course

How to Choose the Right Course for You

If you’re new to AI, consider starting with a course that introduces the basics, like « AI For Everyone » on Coursera or Google’s Machine Learning Crash Course. If you want hands-on experience and coding practice, Kaggle or Fast.ai will offer the most interactive approach.

Each of these platforms offers unique perspectives and teaching styles, allowing you to find one that fits your goals. Now is the perfect time to dive into AI—one of the most in-demand fields worldwide. These courses and resources are a fantastic way to start your journey into artificial intelligence without spending a dime!