This introductory course explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the humanities, examining how AI technologies are transforming fields such as literature, history, philosophy, art, and linguistics. Students will investigate the foundational concepts of AI—such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision—and analyze their implications in humanistic inquiry and creative expression. Through case studies, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will learn to critically assess the ethical, cultural, and social impacts of AI on human thought, creativity, and daily life. Topics include the role of AI in text analysis, historical data visualization, ethical considerations of automation, and AI-generated art and literature. This course is designed to engage students with a variety of academic backgrounds and interests, and students will learn how to leverage AI in ethical and thoughtful ways. No prior technical knowledge is required.
By the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- Describe and analyze the impact of AI technologies—such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision—on humanistic fields like literature, history, philosophy, and art.
- Utilize basic AI tools to conduct text analysis, data visualization, or interpretative tasks relevant to humanities research, demonstrating how AI can enhance understanding of complex humanistic questions.
- Critically assess the ethical, cultural, and social considerations of AI in society, particularly in relation to creativity, automation, and the influence of AI-generated content on human thought and expression using global frameworks, state, and local public policy.
- Formulate well-informed perspectives on AI’s role in society, using principles of civic discourse and C.A.R.E.S. model peer feedback to respectfully discuss its ethical, creative, and social implications.
- Demonstrate information literacy by evaluating credible sources, understanding biases, and making evidence-based arguments in both academic and public discussions on AI in the humanities.
This course could be offered in any format of 8,10, or 15 week formats.