Generative AI: Applications, Implications, and Governance
94-816
Units: 6
Description
AI is entering a new phase that will transform human life – the era of Generative AI. AI can now process and produce language, code, images, and videos, do simple digital work, and discover scientific and creative domains.
These advanced intelligent and digital capabilities are powering novel AI user experiences such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Dall-E, Google’s Gemini, and various proprietary and open-source offerings. These innovations are aiding humans in enhancing productivity and creativity in areas such as writing, thinking, coding, translating, and developing art. Although Generative AI holds the promise of being a transformative tool for humanity, its impact on society will be unpredictable.
In this course, students will explore AI applications, societal implications, and governance. We will delve into how both governmental bodies and private enterprises are navigating the realm of responsible AI while considering how to best align AI with human needs.
This course will provide students with practical exposure to the latest AI technologies that can be used to enhance their personal, educational, and professional endeavors. Students will learn the art of prompt engineering, how to use AI as a research, writing and thinking tool, and strategies to avoid common AI failure points.
Learning Outcomes
- Explore and utilize generative AI tools, learning hands-on ways to integrate them into daily routines through crafting text prompts for diverse tasks. Students will also learn strategies to avoid hallucinations, ensuring the generated outputs are accurate and reliable.
- Discover the art of co-authoring with AI, understanding the advantages and limitations of language models in writing.
- Gain a high-level understanding of the science behind generative AI, encompassing how it predicts text sequences and creates images. Students will grasp the fundamentals of AI training, fine-tuning, and inference while staying abreast of current trends in the field.
- Delve into the societal ramifications of Generative AI through economic, political, ethical, and business perspectives. Engage in discussions to form opinions and debate the potential unforeseen effects of generative AI on society.
- Devise public policy strategies aimed at alleviating the adverse impacts of this technology on society.
- Pose insightful questions to experts and critically assess their viewpoints.
- Learn the principles of responsible AI governance within organizations, including red teaming and responsible release strategies.
- Articulate well-informed recommendations to decision-makers on complex issues, presenting concise and substantiated arguments.
Prerequisites Description
There are no prerequisites for this class. The course is designed for any student to experience the latest AI technology and explore its societal implications. It is ideal for students either on a policy track or technology track.