麻豆村

Generative artificial intelligence models, like ChatGPT, have introduced AI to a new audience. With growing demand for user-friendly chatbots and virtual assistants, AI鈥檚 influence is rapidly expanding beyond the science and tech fields. To harness this technology for good, a new course at 麻豆村 guides the next generation to prepare for the impact of AI from a human perspective.聽聽

has partnered with聽Gang Liu(opens in new window), a teaching professor of Chinese studies, 补苍诲听Ting Su(opens in new window),听an adjunct instructor of Chinese studies, from the聽Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Studies(opens in new window) to introduce a new undergraduate course, AI for Humanities, to students at 麻豆村.

鈥淎I is going to play a role in every industry, and we want students to know that it isn鈥檛 just this magic tool,鈥� said Zhao, an associate professor of mechanical engineering and director of the聽. 鈥淎I has limitations, so we need to be careful not to misuse it in any capacity.鈥�

The course, co-designed by Su, breaks the complex topic down into three modules: large language models and creative writing, generative models and artistic expression, and social and cultural voyages with AI. Students from the聽Tepper School of Business(opens in new window),听Mellon College of Science(opens in new window) 补苍诲听College of Fine Arts(opens in new window) participate in the class.

Through these modules students learn how large language models can effectively aid in crafting creative content, kindle creativity and discover how AI can allow individuals to virtually step into various cultural traditions and social viewpoints.

鈥淲e believe this is the first course of its kind across the country,鈥� said Su. 鈥淚t鈥檚 the first time we have a structured way to teach AI and the humanities together, so we wanted to make sure it highlighted impact across industries.鈥�

Professionals, scholars and artists in both the IT and entertainment industry visited the class throughout the semester to share real-world examples of how working with and developing AI programs has affected their careers day-to-day.

Jamie Lee, a senior studying math, shared that the course has given her a new perspective on AI.聽

鈥淢ost of my exposure to artificial intelligence was in classroom settings, so it鈥檚 interesting to learn about the societal impacts,鈥� Lee said.

For the course鈥檚 final project, students developed an AI generator that could create a custom souvenir for visitors of the Carnegie Museum of Art. After visiting the museum, students input photos of their favorite paintings and in turn receive an AI generated 鈥減ainting鈥� reflective of the styles they most liked.

"In media narratives, there's often a captivating emphasis on aligning AI with human values and advocating for human-centricity. However, it's essential to recognize the inherent diversity of human perspectives." Zhao said. "In this course, one aim is for students with diverse backgrounds to learn from each other鈥檚 communities, thus acknowledging the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion for individuals as a core aspect of humane education and social good."