AI Foundational Capability
This learning content has been created by the Government Chief Digital Office and is envisioned to help build capability in the Public Sector and is not intended as AI policy, guidance or settings.
Introduction:
This learning supports public servants to explore where and how artificial intelligence (AI) could be applied to create value in the public sector.
The e- modules are designed as a starting point for public servants who are beginning to explore how AI might be used within their organisation.
This learning:
- helps build the confidence and capability to assess and enable AI opportunities in a safe, transparent and productive way.
- uses consistent and well-informed approaches.
- reflects public service values and context.
Public Service AI Foundational Development Programme: This learning forms a part of AI Foundations Programme. It explores what is needed to enable AI in practice, including change management, user-centred design and the trade-offs between customising or acquiring AI tools. Learners are supported to complete an AI enablement use case, based on a scenario that is relevant to their own agency. Click here for more details about the AI Foundations Programme.
Module One: Creating Value with AI
Learning Overview: Creating Value with AI covers the basics of AI, explores the implications of using AI in the public service and what is possible when it comes to AI for productivity, growth and customer experience.
Objectives:
This module will support learners to:
- Describe what artificial intelligence is, including key terms such as machine learning and generative AI.
- Identify broad ways AI can help the public service
- Identify legislation, principles and frameworks that guide responsible AI use
- Match common AI use cases to their primary area of benefit
- Reflect on how AI might apply in your own agency or area of work
- Describe ways to measure the impact of AI
Learning Sections:
AI Basics - Accessible version [PDF, 118KB] AI in the Public Service - Accessible version [PDF, 121KB]
The Art of the Possible: AI to unlock productivity and growth - Accessible version [PDF, 115KB]
Module Two: Safe and Responsible AI
Learning Overview: Safe and Responsible AI encourages you to think of the privacy, security and ethical guardrails that need to be in place to embrace AI safely, as well as Māori and data considerations.
Learning Objectives:
This module will support learners to:
- Describe the five principles of the New Zealand Public Service AI Framework and their role in promoting ethical and responsible AI use
- Recognise examples of the types of real-world risks each principle is designed to address
- Identify introductory examples of how each principle can be applied in your AI projects across the public service
- Identify key ethical considerations when developing or using AI systems that involve Māori data
- Explain the importance of managing and protecting data throughout the AI lifecycle
- Identify common security risks associated with AI systems and describe basic measures that could be taken to manage them
- Appreciate that AI governance is an evolving area and recognise the need to stay updated with emerging guidance and developments
Learning Sections:
Safe and Responsible AI - Putting it into Practice - Accessible version [PDF, 130KB] Principle One: Inclusive, Sustainable Development - Accessible version [PDF, 119KB]
Principle Two: Human Centred Values - Accessible version [PDF, 114KB] Principle Three: Transparency and Explainability - Accessible version [PDF 112KB]
Principle Four: Safety and Security - Accessible version [PDF, 113KB] Principle Five: Accountability - Accessible version[PDF, 121KB]
Module Three: Implementing AI
Learning Overview: Implementing AI is all about the impacts on people and processes, and the importance of designing AI systems that are designed to serve the needs of the people who use them. One consideration in this module is the choice between customising or acquiring your AI to fit those needs.
Learning Objectives:
This module will support learners to:
- Compare different approaches to implementing an AI system, and explain how each affects effort, control, and the level of customisation required.
- Describe the core components of an AI system and use structured thinking to consider where changes may be needed to meet public service needs.
- Recognise key responsibilities that apply across all implementation approaches, including oversight, data use, and safe operation.
- Describe how usability, accessibility, and inclusion shape effective AI systems, and why these matter for public value.
- Explain the role of transparency and explainability in building trust, and how they influence system design and communication.
- Reflect on how implementing AI may affect processes and responsibilities, and how teams might prepare for change.
- Consider what upskilling or support may be needed to work with AI systems confidently and safely.
- Begin forming a clear, defensible view of which implementation approach may suit a use case, grounded in public service values and long-term thinking.
Learning Sections:
Choosing how to Implement an AI System - Accessible Version [PDF, 115KB] Impact of AI on People - Accessible Version [PDF, 112KB]
Module Four: Evaluating AI
Learning Overview: Evaluating AI is focused on practical examples that make AI real and teach you how to evaluate AI ideas using a use case template, allowing you to reflect on what you have learned throughout the course overall.
Learning Objectives:
This module will support learners to:
- Frame a real-world problem or opportunity where AI could add public value, aligned to public service principles.
- Note whether AI is an appropriate and responsible solution, considering both benefits and risks, and comparing it to non-AI alternatives.
- Design an AI use case that supports better outcomes for people and communities, uplifts innovation and economic productivity, and maintains alignment our obligations.
- Consider and plan for safety, governance, and human oversight, ensuring that any AI system would be transparent, fair, and accountable.
- Outline data needs, manage data responsibly, and plan for phased, careful implementation, including early assurance and monitoring activities.
- Describe the immediate impact of the proposed AI use case on service quality, efficiency, equity, or innovation.
- Consider the longer-term impact of scaling the AI system, supporting broader public service transformation, economic growth, and public trust.
Learning Sections:
AI Project Use Template [PDF, 110KB] AI The Problem Statement - Accessible Version [PDF, 114KB]
AI The Solution - Accessible Version [PDF, 119KB] AI Data and Implementation - Accessible Version [PDF, 112KB]
AI Today's Impact - Accessible Version [PDF, 115KB] AI Tomorrow's Impact - Accessible Version [PDF, 116KB]