CLSTHIS002 - Generative Artificial Intelligence and Humanity

In this course, students will explore the possibilities and perils of generative artificial intelligence (GAI), machine learning and related tools like ChatGPT for various aspects of human life, including education, work, health, creativity, equity, justice, democracy and what it means to be human. Taught by Rice University faculty, this course will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in GAI and machine learning and their potential impacts on society. Students will learn about the technical underpinnings of GAI and machine learning, as well as the ethical, social and political issues that arise from their use. They will explore case studies from various domains, including education, work, health, the arts, equity, justice and democracy, to gain a deeper understanding of the potential benefits and drawbacks of these technologies. Through a series of lectures, discussions and hands-on exercises, students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to critically evaluate the impact of GAI and machine learning on various aspects of human life. They will also learn about strategies for ensuring that these technologies are used in ways that promote equity, justice and human flourishing.

This course description was written by ChatGPT with prompts from Glasscock School staff.

Note: A limited number of scholarships are available to eligible educators and nonprofit professionals. Email cpcoord@rice.edu for more information.

COURSE SCHEDULE
Sept. 20. AI and Democracy. Moshe Vardi, Ph.D., Karen Ostrum George Distinguished Service Professor in Computational Engineering and University Professor, Rice University
Sept. 27. Understanding Generative AI and Machine Learning: How Machines Learn and Decide. Vicente Ordóñez-Román, Ph.D., associate professor of computer science, Rice University
Oct. 4. A History of the Limitations and Possibilities of Artificial Intelligence. Elizabeth Petrick, Ph.D., associate professor, Department of History, Rice University 
Oct. 11. How Generative AI May Reshape the Workforce. Fred Oswald, Ph.D., professor of psychological sciences, Herbert S. Autrey Chair in Social Sciences, director of graduate studies, Rice University
Oct. 18. Responsible AI for Health. Kirsten Ostherr, Ph.D., MPH, Gladys Louise Professor of English, Chair, Department of English, and director of medical humanities, Rice University 
Oct. 25. What It Means to Be Human in an Age of AI: Philosophical and Ethical Issues. Rodrigo Ferreira, Ph.D., assistant teaching professor of computer science, Rice University
Nov. 1. How Human Is AI Creativity? Anthony Brandt, Ph.D., professor of composition and music theory, Shepherd School of Music, Rice University 
Nov. 8. Generative AI and Education. Richard Baraniuk, Ph.D., C. Sidney Burrus Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, professor of statistics, professor of computer science, Rice University

You may also be interested in our studio art workshop, "Painting With Artificial Intelligence" with Laura Spector.  Learn more about our other course offerings at glasscock.rice.edu/lifelong-learners

Course Details