AI for Absolute Beginners

Everyone keeps saying "AI" and you're nodding along. Your kids say "just ask ChatGPT" and then walk off. You've opened it once, stared at the empty box, and closed it again. You have questions, but no one spends the time to answer them.

This class is for you. Over two relaxed group sessions in Christchurch we cover all the basics to get you understanding and using AI, with plenty of Q&A time and hands-on use. Plain English, no jargon, and no tech skills needed.

Evening one: What the hell is AI?
Tuesday 13 October, 6pm to 8pm

What AI actually is, in plain English.
All the words you keep hearing, decoded: ChatGPT, Claude, "prompt", "chatbot", "the cloud".
Why it's suddenly everywhere, and what it's genuinely good and bad at.
How to stay safe: spotting scams, what not to type in, what it gets wrong.
Privacy: what happens to what you type in, and how to keep your personal information yours.
Then a Q&A where I answer your questions. You can send them in when you book, or ask on the night.

Evening two: Setting up your account
Tuesday 20 October, 6pm to 8pm

We set up your free account together, on your own phone or laptop.
You start using AI and see how it can work for you.
Practical uses that make life easier, from booking holidays and understanding medical jargon to finding the right gift for the grandkids.
How to keep building your skills after the class ends.

Both evenings include free resources and follow-ups, so all your questions get answered and you keep feeling confident using the tools.

The details

Where: Matatiki Hornby Centre, Manawa Tahi room, 25 Smarts Road, Hornby. Free parking on site.
Cost: $48 per person for both evenings. This is a two-evening course and one booking covers both nights.
Bring: something to take notes on, your phone, or a laptop if you have one. A charger. Your glasses. We'll have some snacks available.

Who's teaching
Hi, I'm Lizzy. I use AI every day to build my own business, and before that I had a career in communications, turning complex ideas into information people could understand. I've taught people of all ages how to use technology, and I don't want anyone to feel left out, left behind, or worse, get scammed.

Questions before you book? Email lizzyexplains@gmail.com, or see lizzyexplains.co.nz.

Contact the host of AI for Absolute Beginners - over two evenings