STEM: AI Intro - What Is a Neural Network (the Foundation of AI)

To truly understand AI (Artificial Intelligence) it starts with an understanding of what is at the very heart of this technology, called the Neural Network. This amounts to a computer model of the human brain using math to perform the basic functions of the brain. How this works is fascinating and fun!

In this one time class, we will look at what a Neural Network actually is, and how it works.  This makes a great intro into my longer 10 week courses where we actually build and operate a neural network!

Explored in this one time session:
1. What are neurons, synapses, and how do we simulate them in a computer
2. What is network of these neurons
3. What do individual neurons do
4. How does information flow through a neural network
5. How can math simulate "thinking"
6. What is the difference between training and coding?
7. What can a neural network do?
8. What are the limitations to this technology?

This session is a combination of lecture, discussion, whiteboarding, and Q&A. My style is to take very complex technical concepts and break it down into easy to understand components to build true understanding