Will AI make your life easier or lead to a distopian future controlled by robots? Where can I find AI at work today?? What does this term really mean, anyhow???

There are lots of movies and blogs about AI and autonomous machines, yet these don't necessarily accurately predict the future. Learn about where AI came from, what it is being used for today, and some potential future uses. We will explore the history of decision-making machines, starting from simple controllers like a thermostat, to advanced predictive computer modeling, to machines designing and building other machines.

Learner progress will be evaluated based on participation in the group discussion following the lecture. The topic will explore whether machines are truly becoming "smarter," and/or if engineers and programmers are becoming more skilled at delivering cleverly designed products to meet end user needs. There will not be any homework. No prior knowledge is required for this not-too-technical course.