Concerns raised over AI-generated online training 

The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) has issued a stark warning regarding AI-generated online training courses.

The trade body has raised concerns about the risk of non-UK specific and outdated content.

Chris Ridge, TICA’s technical director, said one example offered a Level 1 certificate upon completion of a £39.99 thermal insulation course.

However, Ridge found the listed contacts failed to link to social media accounts while there was no registered address or contact telephone number.

He said: “Anyone signing up for online courses that may be generated using artificial intelligence should be aware that they may not contain the relevant information that meets UK compliance standards.

“I have seen examples of courses containing content that is non-UK specific and that is actually out of date.

“We advise anyone interested in signing up for an online course to ensure they are properly accredited by checking with their relevant trade organisation. It’s important to stress that artificial intelligence cannot deliver the quality of information required to evidence competence, but it can produce something that looks authentic to the uninitiated.”

Ridge added: “It’s important for everyone in the construction industry to be mindful of such activities, because if it’s happening in the thermal insulation sector, it may be happening elsewhere.”