MPhys Physics

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Artificial intelligence (AI), the ability of machines to learn from data, make decisions and perform actions, is now creeping into every aspect of our lives. This unit explores the mechanisms, implications and ethics of an environment where AI plays an increasingly important role.

• We will consider the science behind the headlines to help you develop an informed opinion regarding the complexities of the use of AI in society
• We will discuss the conceptual frameworks behind AI methodologies and the sources of the data on which they operate
• We will provide an introduction to computational thinking. What sort of problems can AI realistically be expected to help with?
• There will be an in depth analysis of a series of case studies highlighting the use of AI in work and society
• You will work alongside students from a wide range of disciplines, to understand the benefits and opportunities AI offers now, and how this might change in the future

If you are interested in the ways in which AI impacts on society, but have not had the opportunity to study it, this is the unit for you. The unit does not assume any background knowledge.

This online unit, delivered via Blackboard, is made up of online modules that are released at intervals. The unit is highly interactive and adopts a blend of approaches including video inputs and case studies.

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This unit will demystify AI, explaining how it works, and demonstrating its limitations. Its overarching aim is to equip Manchester graduates from all disciplines with an understanding of the impact this technology currently has, the way this is likely to change in the future and, crucially, the ability to grasp the opportunities it brings, whatever your chosen career.

On successful completion of the unit, you will be able to:

• Describe and review the basic concepts underlying AI and Machine Learning
• Identify and debate the impact of AI on society both now and in the future, and from diverse, interdisciplinary and non-technical viewpoints
• Employ computational thinking approaches to formulate a problem in such a way that a computer can tackle it
• Critically evaluate AI applications in an innovative and socially responsible way towards ensuring that technology is used in the future to improve the way we work and live
• Collaborate within a team to analyse and evaluate a case study

Examples of topics covered:

• Can you get a machine to learn? Finding out what AI can do (and more importantly, what it can't do)
• Can AI help your business grow? Using big data to target your ecommerce activity
• Do humans or machines make better drivers? The importance of 'systems thinking' in the human-technology relationship
• What is the impact of AI on our legal system? Can robots make fair and ethical decisions?
• Can robots care? The use of robots in social care

The module is delivered entirely online via Blackboard, although introductory sessions will be organised to help introduce students to the topic and the way in which it will run.

1. Essay (50%)

2. Group case study (30%)

3. Project (20%)

• Formative feedback will be provided by tutors on the online group work
• Summative assessment will be provided through peer-assessment of the group work
• Formative feedback will be provided on a draft of the essay before submission