Module description
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a widely applied technology from conversational interfaces (Siri, Alexa, chatbots) to self-driving cars, from medical apps to assisting in policing and social care. By mapping a broad range of applications, issues arising, and key debates, this module will equip students with a deep and systematic understanding of AI and an overview over current developments of AI. By studying applied AI in context, students will also acquire the ability to critically and ethically evaluate applications in their own substantial investigations.
The module contextualizes artificial intelligence from the following three perspectives: students will evaluate applications of AI in different fields and learn about the technical concepts driving these applications; students will systematically learn about the challenges AI poses for society; and last but not least, the module will also reflect on existing regulations and challenges for AI governance.
Assessment details
Coursework - Practical Research Project (20%) + Report (3,000 words) (80%)
Educational aims & objectives
1. To provide students with a deep and systematic understanding of the concept artificial intelligence.
2. To introduce students to key developments and major debates in contemporary AI.
3. To deliver a comprehensive overview of applications of AI in everyday life.
4. To teach students to evaluate complex societal and ethical issues raised by artificial intelligence.
5. To teach students to independently undertake a substantial investigation into the potential and the challenges of AI applications.
Learning outcomes
At the end of the module, students:
will have a basic understanding of the technologies used in artificial intelligence systems.
will have acquired a systematic overview of the key fields in which AI is applied in everyday life.
will be able to illustrate critical and ethical awareness of how AI applications affect society.
will have acquired an understanding of existing regulations and the challenges of AI goverance.
are able to independently develop a substantial investigation of the application of AI in a certain field (e.g. the workplace, healthcare).