Intro to AI

Course Syllabus

Explore the overview, objectives, and structure for the Introduction to AI course.

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Course Syllabus

Course Description

This one-semester course introduces students aged 12-18 to the fundamental concepts, applications, and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through a combination of theoretical understanding and hands-on experiential learning, students will explore how AI works, where it's used in everyday life, and how to think critically about its impact on society. The course emphasizes practical, project-based learning with accessible tools that require minimal programming experience.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand Core Concepts: Define AI, machine learning, neural networks, and related terminology
  2. Recognize Applications: Identify AI applications in various industries and daily life
  3. Build Simple AI Systems: Create basic AI applications using no-code and low-code tools
  4. Analyze Ethical Implications: Evaluate ethical concerns, bias, and societal impacts of AI
  5. Think Critically: Assess AI systems for fairness, transparency, and responsible use
  6. Explore Future Trends: Understand current AI developments and future possibilities
  7. Complete Projects: Design and implement AI projects that solve real-world problems

Prerequisites

  • Age: 12-18 years old
  • Programming Experience: Minimal to basic (between no experience and basic familiarity)
  • Math Skills: Basic arithmetic and logical thinking
  • Technology Access: Computer or tablet with internet connection
  • Curiosity: Interest in technology and how things work

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

  • Explain the difference between narrow AI and general AI
  • Understand the basic principles of machine learning (supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement)
  • Describe how neural networks function conceptually
  • Identify AI applications in computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics
  • Recognize and analyze bias in AI systems
  • Use accessible AI tools to create working prototypes
  • Discuss ethical implications of AI in society
  • Present AI projects with clear explanations of their design and purpose

Course Structure and Timeline

Total Duration: One semester (approximately 80 days) Total Instructional Hours: 40 hours Lesson Length: Approximately 1 hour per lesson Number of Units: 8 units Lessons per Unit: 4-5 lessons per unit

Unit Breakdown

Unit Topic Duration Lessons
1 Introduction to AI 5 hours 5 lessons
2 Machine Learning Basics 5 hours 5 lessons
3 Neural Networks 5 hours 5 lessons
4 AI Applications 5 hours 5 lessons
5 Ethics and Bias 5 hours 5 lessons
6 Hands-On Projects 5 hours 5 lessons
7 Current Trends and Future 5 hours 5 lessons
8 Final Projects and Presentations 5 hours 5 lessons

Assessment Methods

Assessment in this course emphasizes understanding, application, and reflection over memorization:

  1. Formative Assessments (Ongoing)

    • Class participation and discussions
    • Hands-on activity completion
    • Quick quizzes and reflections
    • Peer feedback during activities
  2. Project-Based Assessments (Unit 6 & 8)

    • Unit 6: Hands-on project creation and presentation
    • Unit 8: Capstone project with written reflection
    • Rubrics focus on: creativity, understanding, application, presentation
  3. Summative Assessments (End of Units)

    • Unit quizzes (open-note, concept-focused)
    • Reflection journals
    • Project presentations with peer evaluation
  4. Final Assessment (End of Course)

    • Capstone project (40% of final grade)
    • Project presentation (20% of final grade)
    • Course reflection essay (20% of final grade)
    • Participation and ongoing work (20% of final grade)

Resources and Tools Needed

Required Tools (Free/Web-Based)

  • Teachable Machine (Google) - Machine learning model training
  • Google Colab - For Python-based activities (optional)
  • Scratch or similar - Visual programming for AI concepts
  • AI Experiment Tools - Various Google AI Experiments
  • ChatGPT or similar - For exploring language models
  • Image recognition APIs - Google Vision API (free tier)
  • Text-to-speech tools - Browser-based tools

Recommended Resources

  • Access to cloud computing resources (free tiers available)
  • Presentation software (Google Slides, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • Video recording capability (for presentations)
  • Notebook or digital journal for reflections

Optional But Helpful

  • Basic Python knowledge (not required, but helpful for advanced students)
  • Access to Raspberry Pi or similar (for robotics exploration)
  • Various AI demo websites and interactive tools

Unit Overviews

Unit
01
Introduction to AI

Learning Objectives: Students will understand what AI is, its history, different types of AI, and recognize AI in everyday life.

Key Topics:

  • Definition and history of AI
  • Narrow AI vs. General AI
  • AI in daily life (recommendations, voice assistants, etc.)
  • Hands-on exploration of AI demos
Unit
02
Machine Learning Basics

Learning Objectives: Students will understand the three main types of machine learning and how machines learn from data.

Key Topics:

  • Supervised learning (classification, regression)
  • Unsupervised learning (clustering)
  • Reinforcement learning
  • Training vs. testing data
  • Hands-on: Building models with Teachable Machine
Unit
03
Neural Networks

Learning Objectives: Students will understand how neural networks work conceptually and their role in deep learning.

Key Topics:

  • Neurons and layers
  • How neural networks learn
  • Deep learning basics
  • Hands-on: Visualizing and building simple neural network demos
Unit
04
AI Applications

Learning Objectives: Students will explore major AI application areas and experiment with real AI tools.

Key Topics:

  • Computer vision (image recognition, object detection)
  • Natural language processing (language understanding, generation)
  • Speech recognition and synthesis
  • Robotics and autonomous systems
  • Hands-on: Using AI APIs and tools
Unit
05
Ethics and Bias

Learning Objectives: Students will critically examine ethical issues, bias, and societal impacts of AI.

Key Topics:

  • AI bias and fairness
  • Privacy and surveillance concerns
  • Job displacement and economic impact
  • Responsible AI development
  • Hands-on: Bias detection and analysis activities
Unit
06
Hands-On Projects

Learning Objectives: Students will create their own AI applications using accessible tools.

Key Topics:

  • Project planning and design
  • Using no-code/low-code AI tools
  • Building simple AI applications
  • Testing and iteration
  • Presentation skills
Unit
07
Current Trends and Future

Learning Objectives: Students will explore cutting-edge AI developments and consider future possibilities.

Key Topics:

  • Large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT
  • Generative AI (images, text, code)
  • AI in various industries (healthcare, education, entertainment)
  • Future predictions and career opportunities
  • Hands-on: Exploring latest AI tools
Unit
08
Final Projects and Presentations

Learning Objectives: Students will develop comprehensive capstone projects and present their work.

Key Topics:

  • Capstone project development
  • Project documentation
  • Presentation preparation
  • Peer feedback and evaluation
  • Course reflection and future learning

Differentiation Strategies

This course is designed for a mixed-age group (12-18). Differentiation strategies include:

  1. Tiered Activities: Same concepts with varying complexity levels
  2. Choice Boards: Students choose project topics based on interest and ability
  3. Flexible Grouping: Mix ages for collaborative learning
  4. Extension Activities: Additional challenges for advanced students
  5. Scaffolding: Support materials for younger or less experienced students
  6. Peer Tutoring: Older students mentor younger ones
  7. Multiple Assessment Options: Various ways to demonstrate understanding

Course Policies

  • Participation: Active participation is expected and valued
  • Collaboration: Students are encouraged to work together and help each other
  • Experimentation: Mistakes are learning opportunities; experimentation is encouraged
  • Respect: All students' questions and contributions are valued
  • Ethics: Focus on responsible and ethical use of AI technology

Accommodations

  • Extra time for activities and assessments as needed
  • Alternative formats for project presentations
  • Additional scaffolding for students who need it
  • Extension activities for students who want more challenge

Contact and Support

Students are encouraged to ask questions during class and seek help when needed. The course emphasizes learning through exploration and collaboration.


Course Philosophy: This course believes that AI literacy is essential for all students, regardless of age or background. Through hands-on experience and critical thinking, students will become informed citizens who can engage thoughtfully with AI technology in their lives and careers.

Unit Overviews

Unit 1: Introduction to AI

Unit 1: Introduction to AI 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Define artificial intelligence in their own words. Explain the difference between narrow AI and general AI. Identify AI applications in their daily lives. Describe key milestones in AI…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 2: Machine Learning Basics

Unit 2: Machine Learning Basics 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Define machine learning and explain how it differs from traditional programming. Identify and explain the three main types of machine learning. Understand training data, testing data, and model…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 3: Neural Networks

Unit 3: Neural Networks 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Explain what a neural network is and how it draws inspiration from the brain. Understand neural network structure, including neurons, layers, and connections. Describe how neural networks learn and…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 4: AI Applications

Unit 4: AI Applications 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Understand how AI powers computer vision solutions. Explain the fundamentals of natural language processing. Recognize AI applications in speech recognition and synthesis. Understand AI’s role in robotics and autonomous…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 5: Ethics and Bias

Unit 5: Ethics and Bias 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Understand what bias is and how it appears in AI systems. Recognize why fairness is essential in AI. Identify privacy concerns connected to AI technologies. Analyze the societal…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 6: Hands-On Projects

Unit 6: Hands-On Projects 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Plan and design an AI project from concept to delivery. Use no-code and low-code AI tools to build applications. Implement machine learning models to solve real problems. Test and…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 7: Current Trends

Unit 7: Current Trends and Future 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Understand cutting-edge developments shaping AI today. Explain large language models and generative AI. Recognize AI applications across multiple industries. Explore future possibilities and predictions for AI. Identify…

View Overview 5 lessons

Unit 8: Final Projects

Unit 8: Final Projects and Presentations 5 hours · 5 lessons Unit Objectives Develop a comprehensive capstone AI project. Integrate multiple concepts learned throughout the course. Create detailed project documentation. Deliver effective presentations. Provide constructive peer feedback. Reflect on the…

View Overview 5 lessons