Courses

Machine learning is rife with technical terms like "parameterization," "backpropagation," and "tokenization." Fittingly, these words seem like something only a machine would understand: technical and inhuman. But machine learning can be reduced to a handful of definitions, key concepts, and basic principles. Understanding these smaller, individual components is the key to understanding the larger systems—an approach known as reductionism or reductive analysis. This non-programming course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) tailored for nontechnical audiences. Through lectures, interactive discussions, and real-world examples, students will gain insights into the underlying mechanics of AI systems without delving deep into mathematical intricacies. The course begins by examining basic regression algorithms—models that quantify the relationship between two or more variables—and gradually builds to more complex topics, such as neural networks and deep learning algorithms that power generative AI platforms, including ChatGPT. Additional tools and reference materials are also provided for further exploration. By the end of this course, students will be able to meaningfully collaborate with AI practitioners and better evaluate the rapidly evolving AI landscape and will have gained valuable context when assessing potential career decisions in the field.