Understanding Artificial Intelligence

This course offers a deep dive into artificial intelligence (AI), blending rigorous academic inquiry with practical, hands-on projects to illuminate the workings of algorithms and intelligence theories. Students will engage directly with the technical underpinnings and historical milestones that have shaped AI, alongside a critical evaluation of contemporary tools and breakthroughs. Practical sessions enable learners to apply AI technologies within an educational framework, enhancing their grasp of its applications and challenges. The curriculum extends beyond technical aspects to address the ethical quandaries, societal impacts, and political considerations AI introduces, encouraging thoughtful discourse on its broader implications. Through this approach, the course aims to equip students with a nuanced understanding of AI’s potential trajectories and their role in steering its future.

To successfully complete this course, students will need access to a laptop or desktop computer with a reliable internet connection and a working webcam and microphone. This course may also require purchase of texts or other course materials.

This Student-Paced Course is a time-flexible format that empowers students to complete rigorous and connected learning experiences while accommodating significant outside commitments, including travel, athletics, internships and camp. Students have full access to course materials and activities throughout the term. They work closely with teachers to set individualized weekly benchmarks to create accountability and build consistency. Students interact with teachers and peers via discussion threads, collaborative readings, video posts and other media. Students have the opportunity to meet live for orientation and introduction at start of term, progress check at midterm, and culminating presentations at end of term.