ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOUNDATIONS

Understanding the technical foundations and implementation details of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and systems enables nuanced approaches to responsible use, evaluation, and critique of artificial intelligence. This course introduces the ideas and techniques underlying the design of intelligent computer systems. We will trace the development of the field from the symbolic, knowledge-rich approaches of 20th century AI (e.g., rule-based systems), through statistical approaches that rely on increasingly large amounts of data (e.g., machine learning), and finish with an overview of contemporary large language models. We will explore how to apply these techniques in different domains, ranging from criminal justice to video games, and consider the interplay of AI and society throughout the course. Prerequisites: COMS W3134 (or equivalent).