Creativity was one of the characteristics humanity was always proud of. With recent technological advancements, machines are starting to get good at creating: not only useful, but sensical and beautiful things. It looks like almost every domain where humans create original work — from advertising to literature, from coding to graphics, from marketing to law — is up for reinvention. Would Generative AI become not just faster and cheaper, but a better alternative to human hands and minds? How would it affect the creative process? We will discuss these questions, look at limitations and perspectives and build generative AI models.
Note: This module will fulfill CHS Artificial Intelligence Common curriculum or CHS Scientific Inquiry (but not both). However, this module will not fulfill CDE Artificial Intelligence Common curriculum.
Student Reviews
Anonymous AY25/26 Sem 1
About the Instructor:
Prof is very very approachable and tries his best to conduct the seminars in a very engaging manner. He tries to involve us in discussions, hands-on exercises and simple polling, which I really enjoyed. He is also very open to questions to clarify or to challenge certain points. He is very well updated on the latest developments in AI and I think his expertise and experience really value-added to my experience.
Content (Structure/Organization):
The course is largely structured around a few topics - the first half of the sem is more technical (eg API, ANN) while the second half of the sem explores the human aspect of AI (eg music, creativity, work, governance and regulations). The course structure wasn't very clearly specified at the start of the semester, but it should still be manageable regardless. For those without much technical expertise, the initial technical introduction to AI might be a little steep and confusing but the downstream implications are not too severe (and Prof is very willing to provide help if asked). The range of themes explored were helpful and provides a comprehensive overview and critique of AI in today's society.
Manageability of Workload:
Workload was super manageable. Key assessments are 2 in-class quizzes (around mid and end of the sem), 2 technical assignments and a group project. He is very understanding towards our other commitments too, so I think the workload should be very comfortable. As part of his attempt to educate us on the responsible use of AI, AI usage is encouraged in the class, as long as you use it critically and intellectually.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:
I think the assessments are not necessarily too challenging and are definitely do-able if you listen in class.
Learning Value/Recommendation:
I think this course was really helpful as an introduction to AI, and I really enjoyed the second half of the course where we got to debate and discuss about the implications of AI on human society. The technical stuff introduced helped me to have a better understanding of AI too.