Jeremy Weinstein
Generative artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, learn, and interact. It is also changing the way society can solve public problems – and the very problems that are addressed. DPI-681 sits at the intersection of technology and policy. Over the course of the semester, students will study both the technical foundations of generative AI and the policy questions it raises in a variety of domains, including education, healthcare, media and information, and scientific innovation. At the same time, students will critically examine some of the challenges associated with artificial intelligence, including labor displacement, data privacy, and existential risk. We will cover this material through case studies and hands-on technical assignments. This interdisciplinary course will prepare students for capstone projects and professional experiences focused on technology policy and service delivery at all levels of government. Students should either enroll in DPI-681 or DPI-681M, the less technical, module-length version of this course. Prior programming experience is recommended to fully benefit from the course’s applied components. In lieu of purchasing a textbook for this course, students will need to purchase API keys to complete assignments, which will cost approximately $20 over the course of the semester. Please do not let the costs deter you from enrolling: we will figure out alternate options for students who may need financial assistance.