Overview
Where AI came from, what it actually is, and where it is headed. We cut through the hype with plain-language definitions — machine learning, neural networks, large language models — and compare what machines and humans are each good at. In lab, you will have your first structured conversations with three leading chatbots and compare how they behave.
Learning objectives
- Define artificial intelligence, machine learning, neural networks, and large language models in plain language.
- Describe key moments in AI history and what changed with generative AI.
- Contrast machine and human intelligence: strengths, limits, and failure modes.
- Run the same prompt through ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude and articulate the differences.
Session agenda
- 6:00 – 6:15Welcome & course tour
Introductions, how the course works, grading, and the capstone at the end of the road.
- 6:15 – 7:20Lecture: What is AI?
History in five stops, key terms defined, machine vs. human intelligence, and a live demo of a modern LLM.
- 7:20 – 7:30Break
- 7:30 – 9:00Lab: Meet the chatbots
Try ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude for brainstorming and Q&A on a topic you care about; record and compare their outputs side by side.
- 9:00 – 9:10Wrap-up
Share one surprising difference your group found; preview next week.
Materials
- A laptop or campus computer with a web browser (no installs needed).
- Free accounts: ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude.
- Companion reading: Elements of AI, Chapter 1.
Homework
Finish your chatbot comparison notes and write a short paragraph: which assistant would you reach for first, and for what kind of task? Read Elements of AI, Chapter 1.
Detailed slides, lab worksheets, and demos for this session are in progress and will be posted here before class.