The accounting profession is far from immune from disruptive technology, and savvy professionals want to stay on top of what, why, and how things are changing.

This nine-part course will explore a wide variety of emerging and rapidly-changing technologies from robotics to artificial intelligence, machine learning, both virtual and augmented reality, Blockchain, edge computing, smart devices and tech, and virtual assistant technology.

Part 1: Using Robots and RPA in the Workplace

With current advances in technology, robots are no longer science fiction. They might well be your coworkers! Robots, whether physical or Robotic Process Automation (RPA) software, are fast becoming an integral part of the workplace. Robots and employees need to work well together to succeed. In this course, you'll learn about the characteristics of both physical and software robots. You'll explore how to distinguish between them and how they are being integrated in the workplace. 

Part 2: Transforming the Workplace Using Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the most important general-purpose technology of the 21st century. Much like electricity at the turn of the 20th century, it has the potential to transform the way businesses and industries operate. This course will help you grasp AI's potential so you can transform your business. You'll learn about AI in business. You'll examine common cognitive technologies that utilize AI, the effects of its applications in the workplace, and what to consider when identifying AI opportunities and benefits for your business. 

Part 3: Creating Engagement with Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) isn't new, so why all the attention now? Major strides in artificial intelligence and the 3D environment have brought VR renewed attention. In this course, you'll learn about the characteristics of VR and the broad range of uses for VR in the business cyberspace. You'll explore the factors affecting a VR participant's sense of presence and how to distinguish between different levels of the immersive environment.

Part 4: Getting Started with Machine Learning

Machine learning (ML) is a type of artificial intelligence that's having a profound impact on computing and its uses. Machine learning in business can provide your organization with a competitive edge, now that the use of analytics has become more prevalent. In this course, you'll learn what machine learning is, its potential benefits, associated considerations and high-level steps your organization can take to identify opportunities for machine learning, determine their feasibility, and implement machine learning solutions.

Part 5: How Blockchain Technology is Transforming Businesses

Just as the Internet revolutionized the way companies do business, digital innovation and blockchain technology are redefining transactions. In this course, you'll learn about blockchain technology, how it changes the way business transactions take place, and the differences between public and private versions. You'll also learn about smart contracts, and how they enable innovation, as well as the key challenges that blockchain technology currently faces. 

Part 6: Connecting with the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) allows objects to be sensed and controlled remotely across an existing network infrastructure. This session will cover the basics of IoT, and its application and value to customers, organizations, and everyday life.

Part 7: Effective Edge Computing

With the use of artificial intelligence and smart devices on the rise, business networks are strained under the heavy load of data. Edge computing seeks to move data processing, collection, and delivery closer to the end user to the so-called edge of the network. In this course, you'll learn about the benefits and challenges of edge computing. You'll also learn how to properly utilize a data warehouse and plan for implementing it into your business operation.

Part 8: Using Augmented Reality for Organizational Gains

When used effectively, augmented reality, or AR, can transform everything from how an organization trains its workforce to the kind of experience it offers to its customers, and in the process, can improve the bottom line. In this course, you'll learn about the characteristics, technical components, and different types of augmented reality. You'll explore the benefits and best practices for using AR to increase business value and identify key considerations when planning AR implementations. 

Part 9: Applying Virtual Assistant Technology

Virtual assistants are an expanding technology that can enable artificial intelligence to assist your workforce. However, many companies have yet to realize the full potential this technology has for improving growth and competitive advantage. Virtual assistant technology can help position your organization for smart growth and future-proofing strategies that will allow it to flourish in the digital marketplace. This course covers benefits, best practice, and trends in virtual assistant technology.

Unlock learning anytime, anywhere with the Blackboard Learn app

Seamlessly access your on demand courses, assignments, and get PD hours on the go. Learn how to download now and elevate your education experience with the convenience of mobile learning.

Upon completion of this course suite, you will learn:

• The characteristics of a robot and ways to improve the way employees work with robots.
• Factors to consider when identifying opportunities for AI in your business.
• Criteria to use to identify tasks that might benefit from an AI application.
• Characteristics that describe virtual reality and it's business benefits.
• The benefits of machine learning and how to determine the feasibility of machine learning opportunities.
• Key changes blockchain technology introduces to how transactions take place.
• How blockchain technology works.
• The purpose and ideas behind IoT.
• Applications of IoT that address key areas of concern.
• Key business advantages of using edge computing.
• Types of edge computing.
• Characteristics of augmented reality.
• The technical components of augmented reality.
• The benefits of using virtual assistant technology in your organization.
• Best practices when implementing and deploying virtual assistant technology in you.