Spring 2026
Artificial Intelligence in a Human World: Skills, Ethics & Impact
Dates: January 12, 2026 - April 29, 2026Day/Time: Monday; Wednesday 7:00 AM - 8:15 AM EST
Level: 300-Level
Certificate: Technology and Society*
Instructor: Anguelina Popova, American University of Central Asia
This course introduces modern AI systems and tools while exploring their ethical implications and societal impact. Students gain practical experience using AI technologies like Large Language Models, Generative Art tools, and AI agents, while simultaneously developing a critical framework for understanding AI ethics, governance, and responsible use. The course combines hands-on workshops with discussions on the philosophical, social, and policy dimensions of AI in contemporary society. Beyond practical applications, this course helps demystify the inner workings of modern AI tools, from foundational machine learning concepts to transformer architectures that power today's large language models. Students will unpack the technical "black box" of AI systems to understand how they function, why they sometimes fail, and what their fundamental limitations are. This technical grounding, accessible to non-technical students, will empower learners to think more critically about AI capabilities, make informed decisions about their use, and engage meaningfully in debates about the future of artificial intelligence in society. Through a combination of interactive demonstrations, intuitive explanations, and hands-on exercises, students will develop a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the AI revolution, providing them with both practical skills and the conceptual framework needed to navigate an increasingly AI-integrated world
Credits: 3 US / 6 ECTS