AI training glossary
128 terms explained in plain English.
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- Agent skillsPackaged instructions, sometimes with files or scripts, that an AI agent loads when a task calls for them, so it handles a recurring task the same way each time.AI at work
- Agentic AIAI used in an agent-like way: given a goal and tools, it carries out multistep work with some independence. The term describes an approach, not a single product.AI at work
- AI agentAn AI system that works toward a goal by planning steps and using tools, such as browsing, editing files or sending messages, with less step-by-step direction from a person.AI at work
- AI assistant(AI chat assistant)An AI tool that responds to your requests in a conversation by answering, drafting, summarizing or analyzing. It acts when you ask, then waits for your next message.AI at work
- AI copilotAn AI assistant built into an app you already use, such as a word processor, spreadsheet or email client, that works on the content open in that app.AI at work
- AI design toolA tool that generates or edits visual work, such as slides, page layouts, mockups and graphics, from text instructions.AI at work
- AI use caseA specific task or process where AI is applied, described clearly enough to test and measure.AI at work
- AI-generated contentText, images, audio or video produced fully or partly by AI. Many organizations set rules for when it must be reviewed or disclosed.AI at work
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- Project workspaceA space in an AI tool that keeps the files, instructions and conversations for one piece of work together, so you don’t re-explain the context each time.AI at work
- Prompt engineeringWriting and testing prompts to get reliable, useful results from AI tools, by giving clear instructions, context, examples and the format you want.AI at work
- Prompt libraryA shared collection of tested prompts that a team reuses for recurring tasks, so results stay consistent and new staff don’t start from scratch.AI at work
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Commonly confused terms
AI literacy is understanding what AI is and what it can and can’t do. AI fluency is the practical ability to work with it well on your own tasks. Literacy comes first; fluency comes from practice.
Upskilling improves how someone does their current job. Reskilling prepares them for a different job.
A workshop is hands-on: participants practice on real tasks. A masterclass is expert-led and deep on one topic, with more demonstration than practice. “Training” is the umbrella term for both.
An assistant responds to each request and waits for the next one. An agent takes a goal, plans the steps and uses tools to carry them out with less direction.
An outcome states what the learner can do afterward. An objective states what the trainer aims to achieve. Many organizations use the two interchangeably.
A certificate of completion shows someone finished a course. A certification shows they passed an assessment against a standard. Accreditation is when an external body approves the course or provider itself.
E-learning is delivered entirely through digital platforms. Blended learning combines online study with in-person sessions. Live online training is real-time and trainer-led over video.
A self-paced course runs on each learner’s schedule. A cohort-based course moves a group through together on fixed dates, with live sessions and peer discussion.