Phoebe the pug boasts an impressive array of qualifications surpassing many individuals. Holding more than 200 certifications, this Alberta canine theoretically possesses the skills to operate a truck, steer a boat, and handle a forklift. Additionally, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) agency even granted Phoebe a ProServe certification, enabling her to legally serve alcoholic beverages if needed.
This unique accomplishment is attributed to a test conducted by Cognisense, a Calgary-based security firm specializing in online training. Utilizing artificial intelligence, Phoebe, the firm’s unofficial Chief Training Integrity Officer, completed the ProServe Liquor Staff Training certificate in just six minutes. This experiment shed light on the potential security risks associated with online training programs.
Robert Day, Cognisense’s managing director, emphasized the transformation in training standards from in-person to online methods. He highlighted the concerning implication that AI tools could complete training without any human involvement, questioning the authenticity and reliability of certifications obtained through such means.
The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) also faced a similar scenario where Phoebe reportedly acquired an Alberta defensive-driving certificate online. However, AMA clarified that the certificate alone does not guarantee demerit reduction and must be validated in-person against a valid driver’s license.
In response to these incidents, stakeholders like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of training processes to prevent unqualified individuals from obtaining certifications. They called for stronger standards and safeguards to ensure that training recipients genuinely fulfill the requirements, emphasizing the critical role of upholding safety measures.
As the landscape of training evolves towards online platforms, the necessity of robust verification procedures becomes increasingly vital to safeguard against potential risks and uphold the credibility of certifications.
