Pearson Unveils Generative AI Foundations Certification
New Delhi, October 3, 2024: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s lifelong learning company, today announced the launch of its Generative AI Foundations certification. The program is designed to equip professionals and students, including high schoolers, with the essential skills needed to work with generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) technologies. The certification demonstrates a formal level of Gen AI proficiency for employers who are increasingly using AI tools to boost productivity, efficiency, and workflow.
Demand for generative AI skills is skyrocketing across industries and employers are increasingly making it a requirement. According to the 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report[1] from Microsoft and LinkedIn, 66% of business leaders indicate they would not hire candidates lacking AI skills. Additionally, 71% prefer to hire a less experienced candidate who possesses AI skills over a more experienced one without them.
Developed by Certiport, a Pearson VUE business, and a leader in career and skills credentialing, the Generative AI Foundations certification is part of its broader Critical Career Skills portfolio. This initiative provides both training and certification for learners, creating a one-stop shop for AI education and other in-demand skills like communication. To help ensure the certification reflects current industry demands, Pearson has partnered with Mindstone, a global leader in AI training. Mindstone’s practical AI application training enhances the relevance and value of Pearson’s Generative AI Foundations certification for learners at all stages in their careers.
Dr. Gary Gates, managing director, Pearson VUE stated, “Generative AI is reshaping how early-in-career and seasoned professionals work, learn, and create across every sector. Certiport’s Generative AI Foundations certification equips people with technical AI skills and an ethical framework for principled AI use, addressing the skills gap and establishing a benchmark for Generative AI competency.”
The Generative AI Foundations certification will be available starting October 1 through Mindhub and Certiport. It will also be delivered on Pearson VUE’s online testing platform (OnVUE), and in test centers within the Certiport network. Flexible purchasing options are available.
This new certification will validate an individual’s proficiency in key areas such as:
- Understanding generative AI methods and models
- Mastering the basics of prompt engineering and prompt refinement–a universal process of inquiry with Gen AI systems
- Grasping the societal impact of AI, including recognizing bias and understanding privacy concerns