Weekly Objectives

Weeks 1-2: Foundations of AI (Adding a Theological Lens)

• Week 1:

  • Define Artificial Intelligence and differentiate it from related concepts.

  • Identify key milestones in AI history.

  • Categorize different types of AI.

  • Understand basic AI components. (Consider a discussion point: How does the concept of human intelligence, created in God's image, compare and contrast with artificial intelligence?)

• Week 2:

  • Explain machine learning principles.

  • Describe how algorithms learn.

  • Understand data quality and bias. (Incorporate a discussion on how bias in data reflects human flaws and the Christian call for justice and fairness.)

  • Discuss neural networks. (Perhaps touch upon the complexity of God's creation of the human brain as a point of reference.)

Weeks 3-5: Exploring AI Applications in Education (Ethical Use and Stewardship)

• Week 3:

  • Identify AI tools in education.

  • Analyze benefits and drawbacks of personalized learning.

  • Evaluate AI feedback. (Discuss the importance of genuine human interaction and mentorship in education from a Christian perspective.)

• Week 4:

  • Use AI for research ethically. (Emphasize honesty and integrity in academic work as a reflection of Christian values.)

  • Explore AI for content creation. (Discuss the responsibility of using these tools truthfully and avoiding plagiarism.)

  • Understand ethical considerations. (Focus on the Christian understanding of truth and the potential for AI to be used deceptively.)

• Week 5:

  • Investigate AI for organization.

  • Explore AI for language learning. (Consider the value of communication and understanding across cultures from a Christian perspective.)

  • Discuss AI for diverse learners. (Frame this within the Christian call to care for the marginalized and ensure equitable access.)

Weeks 6-8: AI in the World of Work (Dignity of Work and Justice)

• Week 6:

  • Identify industries impacted by AI.

  • Analyze specific AI applications.

  • Discuss job displacement and creation. (Incorporate a discussion on the dignity of work and how Christians should approach economic shifts with compassion and a focus on justice.)

• Week 7:

  • Explore AI in automation.

  • Investigate AI in recruitment. (Discuss the potential for bias in these systems and the Christian call for fairness and equal opportunity.)

  • Discuss future workforce skills. (Consider how Christian values like service and compassion might be relevant in future careers.)

• Week 8:

  • Research AI-related careers.

  • Learn about AI in entrepreneurship. (Discuss ethical entrepreneurship and using technology for good.)

  • Consider relevant skills. (Emphasize the importance of character and integrity alongside technical skills.)

Weeks 9-11: Practical AI Tools and Skills (Discernment and Responsible Use)

• Week 9:

  • Hands-on with text generation.

  • Learn effective prompting.

  • Critically evaluate AI content. (Emphasize the importance of discernment and verifying information, aligning with the Christian pursuit of truth.)

• Week 10:

  • Explore AI for image generation.

  • Understand ethical considerations. (Discuss the potential for misuse and the Christian responsibility to use creative tools ethically.)

  • Develop presentation skills.

• Week 11:

  • Introduce data analysis with AI.

  • Learn to identify patterns.

  • Discuss data literacy. (Consider the importance of truthfulness and accuracy in data, reflecting God's nature.)

Weeks 12-14: Ethical and Societal Implications of AI (Justice, Love, and Human Flourishing)

• Week 12:

  • Discuss ethical challenges (bias, fairness, accountability). (Frame this within the Christian understanding of justice and the inherent worth of every individual.)

  • Analyze real-world examples of bias. (Discuss how bias can perpetuate injustice and the Christian call to advocate for the marginalized.)

  • Explore bias mitigation. (Consider how Christian principles of love and equality can inform the development of fairer AI.)

• Week 13:

  • Examine societal impact on privacy and security. (Discuss the Christian understanding of the value of the individual and the importance of protecting their dignity and privacy.)

  • Discuss regulations and policies. (Consider the role of Christians in advocating for just and ethical governance of technology.)

  • Consider potential for inequality. (Reflect on the Christian call to care for the poor and vulnerable and ensure AI doesn't exacerbate existing disparities.)

• Week 14:

  • Explore philosophical implications. (Discuss the nature of human intelligence and consciousness from a theological perspective – created in God's image.)

  • Discuss risks and benefits of advanced AI. (Encourage students to consider the potential for both good and harm through a Christian ethical lens.)

  • Encourage informed opinions. (Prompt students to develop their views based on both their understanding of AI and their Christian faith.)

Weeks 15-16: The Future of AI and Student Projects (Stewardship and Hope)

• Week 15:

  • Discuss future trends in AI.

  • Explore emerging technologies.

  • Encourage critical thinking about long-term implications. (Frame this with a sense of Christian hope and the potential for technology to be used for God's glory and the benefit of humanity, while also acknowledging potential pitfalls.)

• Week 16:

  • Student projects applying AI concepts. (Encourage projects that consider ethical implications and potential for positive impact.)

Week 17: Project Presentations and Course Wrap-up (Reflection and Call to Action)

• Student project presentations.

• Review key concepts and learning objectives. (Reflect on the course content through the lens of their faith.)

• Discuss resources for continued learning. (Encourage students to continue exploring AI with a commitment to Christian values and ethical engagement.)