Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly emerged as a significant force across various fields, reshaping industries, enhancing productivity, and driving innovation. Recognizing this shift, the Shiley School of Engineering at the University of Portland (UP) has introduced a new minor in artificial intelligence, marking a pivotal step in addressing the growing demand for AI skills.
The introduction of the AI minor is timely. While UP has offered foundational courses on AI since 2018, this semester marks the first time a structured series of courses totaling 12 credits is available. This minor aims not only to navigate the popular trends well-publicized by platforms like ChatGPT but to delve deeper into the multifaceted dimensions of AI. According to Tammy VanDeGrift, the interim dean for the Shiley School of Engineering, “AI is much broader than ChatGPT,” emphasizing the historical context and the evolving applications of AI technologies.
### Historical Context and Development
The concept of artificial intelligence isn’t new. It has roots that extend back several decades, with advancements fueled by increased computational power and access to vast datasets. The recent explosion of interest in generative AI can be credited largely to OpenAI’s unveiling of ChatGPT, demonstrating how far AI has come and how it is now intertwined with daily life.
VanDeGrift highlights that the minor integrates fundamental AI techniques such as probability theory and model building. These are being applied innovatively, thanks to advancements in technology that facilitate new methods of data storage and access. This suggests a forward-thinking approach that prepares students for the modern landscape of AI applications.
### Curriculum and Structure
The minor is designed to be inclusive, open to students from all majors, emphasizing that AI has a wide-reaching applicability. According to Andrew Nuxoll, associate professor and chair of computer science, “Computer science is like chocolate; it goes really well with something else.” This perspective encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, allowing students to witness the intersection of AI with other fields.
To facilitate the entry of students lacking prior coding experience, the curriculum begins with an “Introduction to Computer Science” course. Upper-division offerings, including seminars on advanced topics, help students develop essential skills in programming, mathematics, and the ethical implications of AI use. For instance, Nuxoll’s AI class, CS 421, incorporates practical game design, reinforcing theoretical concepts while allowing students to engage with AI through real-world applications.
### Student Feedback and Perspectives
Early enthusiasm for the minor is palpable among students. Junior computer science majors Chengen Li and Joshua Krasnogorov are keen to declare it, recognizing the competitive edge that AI knowledge provides in today’s job market. Li notes, “A lot of companies want to move towards AI. Keeping up with that demand is a necessary skill to have.” This statement underscores the imperative for universities to adapt curricula in response to industry needs, ensuring graduates remain viable candidates for employment.
Furthermore, Krasnogorov discusses the nature of AI programming, stating that “it’s all matrix multiplication,” suggesting that a foundational understanding of mathematics is beneficial but not strictly necessary. This encourages students from diverse academic backgrounds to consider the field, positioning AI as accessible yet intellectually stimulating.
Li further illustrates AI’s broad implications, particularly in sectors like healthcare, where machine learning aids in identifying crucial medical imagery that may evade human detection. This highlights AI’s potential to improve outcomes across various areas, reinforcing its value beyond generic applications.
### Broader Implications and Industry Demand
As industries increasingly integrate AI solutions into their operations, the workforce is evolving. Companies embarking on AI projects seek individuals equipped with the necessary skills to innovate and implement effective AI systems. Graduates familiar with both the technical aspects and ethical considerations of AI will be particularly appealing to employers. The minor in AI is strategically structured to provide a comprehensive education, ensuring students not only acquire technical skills but also develop a nuanced understanding of the ethical implications surrounding AI deployment.
This alignment between educational offerings and industry demands reflects a growing trend in higher education—programs are increasingly oriented toward preparing students for careers in emergent fields. The AI minor sets a precedent for curriculum development across universities, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary studies in a rapidly changing job landscape.
### Conclusion
The launch of the artificial intelligence minor at the University of Portland illustrates a significant step in preparing students for future careers in a world dominated by technology. With its robust curriculum grounded in foundational AI principles and practical applications, it seeks to equip students with both the technical competencies and critical awareness necessary for responsible AI use.
As industries continue to evolve under the influence of artificial intelligence, educational institutions must prioritize adaptive learning strategies. Programs like UP’s AI minor not only enhance employability but also emphasize the responsibility of future professionals to harness the power of AI ethically and effectively. This initiative aims to empower a new generation of problem solvers equipped to tackle the complex challenges presented by advanced AI technologies.
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