AI and Society

Course Objective

After this course, students have a better knowledge and understanding of the societal questions that are related to AI; they are able to applying their knowledge and understanding about AI technology to contribute to the societal discussion; students are able to make judgments about societal consequences of applying AI technology.

With respect to communication skills, students have learned to articulate their informed opinions in a public debate. Students have improved their learning skill of critical thinking.

This course is particular focused on the Dublin descriptors:

• Making judgements: students have to make judgments on awareness of, and responsibility concerning, the ethical, normative and social consequences of Artificial Intelligence in the society.
• Communication skills (posters, essays, reports, and discussions).

Course Content

During this course, we will explore the role of AI in the society. Based on recent scientific literature and the portrayal of AI in contemporary movies and popular press, students and teachers will discuss topics such as the consequences of AI for the labour market and (in)equality, the ethical considerations around autonomous systems, the risks of biases and misuse of algorithms, the legal aspects of AI and the questions about the control over AI systems. In addition, we will explore possible ways to counteract negative effects. We will also reflect on the role of AI experts in this societal discussion.

Each week we discuss a specific theme, which is illustrated by a movie and presented by a guest speaker. In working group meetings, we discuss questions around the weekly theme. Attendance to the guest speaker sessions and the working group sessions is obligatory (one may be missed without consequences).

During the course, a number of reports based on literature have to be written, which are reviewed by other students. The final product of the course is an opinion article (essay), which has to be written in a controlled setting (exam room); students can bring a cheat sheet (the precise instructions will be shared on Canvas). The course is concluded with a plenary symposium where all articles are presented in the form of a poster.

Additional Information Teaching Methods

Plenary session with movies, guest speakers, discussion meetings, group work. The attendance of guest speaker and working group sessions is obligatory (at most one may be missed without consequences).

Method of Assessment

Weekly group reports + peer reviews, an individual final essay written in a controlled environment, and a poster about the topic of the essay. Peer reviews are done individually and obligatory. The average of the weekly reports counts for 40%, the final essay counts for 50%, and the poster counts for 10%.

A minimum grade of 5.5 for each component is required.

There is no option for a resit.

Additional Information Target Audience

Additional Information

Policy with respect to the use of Generative AI:

Use of generative AI is permitted in a limited way, with disclosure

In this course, generative AI (GenAI), such as ChatGPT or similar tools, may be used in a limited way, for example for editorial support, rephrasing, or structure. Substantive contributions from GenAI may only be used within the limits set by the lecturer. Any use of GenAI must always be explicitly disclosed, in accordance with the lecturer's instructions. The student remains fully responsible for the content, quality, and accuracy of the submitted work. Incorrect use of GenAI is considered fraud. If stablished, the submitted work or assessment result will be declared invalid, and the Examination Board may impose further measures.