Tuesdays: 10:15 am – 12:15 pm | Oct. 8 to Nov. 12
Location: Baker Free Library, Bow, NH
Instructor and Facilitator: Curtiss Rude

C- Artificial Intelligence

This course explores the development of artificial intelligence, both machine learning and neural networks, since the 1950’s. We will develop an understanding of the hardware and the algorithms behind the current explosive economic growth of the field. We will identify the key players and see the breadth of the current uses of AI technology in science, education, business, politics, and warfare. We will show where and why AI is successful and where and why AI has limitations. We will discuss how AI could alter what it means to be human, AI’s potential for good and for evil, and how we might prepare ourselves for the changes in society that are now almost inevitable. No prior knowledge of AI by participants is assumed.

Curtiss Rude has a BS in Physics from Carnegie-Mellon University and an MS in Electrical Engineering (solid-state physics) from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He worked in the microelectronics industry for IBM in Vermont for 20+ years in a variety of engineering and engineering management roles. His second career was as a high school chemistry and physics teacher for seven years. Upon retirement, he took up astronomy as a hobby. He also plays club chess most weeks. Curtiss has previously taught LINEC courses on astronomy, cosmology, political geography, and the history of money.