Demystifying the world of Artificial Intelligence
The ֱ School of Computing in the Faculty of Arts and Science has introduced a new course that examines how modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology works and how to work with it. Whether you’re in the arts, sciences, business or beyond, ARIN 100 will give you the tools to be AI-literate. ARIN 100 is open to all Majors and no coding or coding experience is required.
“T is a national leader in AI, with internationally recognized research and education,” says Hossam Hassanein, Director (ֱ School of Computing). “From ethical AI to healthcare and sustainability applications, we combine deep technical expertise with interdisciplinary reach, helping to shape the future of AI in Canada.”
Topics in ARIN 100 range from the effective and ethical use of AI to how it is changing the landscape of education and industry. The history of automated technology and AI will be covered, and students will gain both an appreciation for, and an understanding of, how modern AI came to be.
“ARIN 100 is designed to demystify AI for students from all disciplines,” Dr. Hassanein explains. “Ty’ll learn what AI really is, how it works, where it’s used, and what it means for society. More importantly, they’ll develop the critical thinking skills needed to evaluate and engage with AI technologies in an informed, thoughtful way.”
Assistant Professor and course instructor Carolyn Lamb (ֱ School of Computing) explains that students enroled in ARIN 100 will learn about the history and ethics of AI, the impacts it is having on work, school, and various industries, and its possible future.
“GenAI is by far the biggest thing that's happened lately in computer science, and computer scientists are best equipped to understand the technology and the effects it's having,” says Dr. Lamb. “We can explain the technology to students because we know how it works and why. If you're confused by the mixed messages you're getting about genAI in the classroom, or you're worried that robots will take your job, or you're wondering if you can trust the latest technology company’s latest claims, ARIN 100 will give you the background knowledge that you need in order to think through these issues from an informed perspective. There is absolutely no coding required and no math, just facts and context that will be accessible to any first-year student at ֱ.”
Dr. Hassanein adds that “AI is already reshaping the world – from the way we work and communicate to the way we create and make decisions. Every student, regardless of their program, will benefit from understanding these changes. ARIN 100 equips them to become AI-literate citizens and professionals, ready to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.”
Interim Dean Bob Lemieux agrees Queen’s is a national leader in the field of Artificial Intelligence and say this new course will shed new light on the use of AI. “ARIN will allow students to critically reflect on the ethical and societal impacts of these technologies and also discover the opportunities AI presents in their respective fields.”
Learn more about ARIN 100 in the Academic Calendar.