Data + Donuts: Teddy Svoronos on the Science & Implications of Generative AI

Teddy Svoronos is a Senior Lecturer of Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, where he teaches courses in using statistical methods to improve public policy. His primary interest lies in the use of technology to replicate the dynamics of small classes on a large scale. Teddy is a Faculty Lead for the Evidence for Decisions area of HKS’ online Public Leadership Credential, and the Faculty Liaison for Pedagogy and Digital Learning at SLATE.

At this session of Data + Donuts, Teddy will talk about the co-taught course “The Science and Implications of Generative AI.” Launched in Spring 2024 with course materials openly available online, the course explores the inner workings of modern AI models, engages in practical applications of systems like ChatGPT, assesses the advantages and risks of deploying generative AI in a variety of contexts, and examines how to harness AI technology responsibly for the benefit of society. Teddy will speak about how he and his co-teachers developed the course curriculum given how rapidly the field of generative AI is developing, the insights they gained from their first semester offering the course, and why the topic is critical to public policy today.

Teddy's talk will be given in a hybrid format. Register to receive a link to join via Zoom. In-person attendees can join us in Taubman 520 - Nye A. Those without an HUID may enter via the Wexner security desk after showing a photo ID. View a map of campus.

Data + Donuts features researchers and practitioners speaking about how they use data in their work, and on issues of data and society. We welcome those from the HKS community and beyond to share knowledge, discussion, and donuts. Explore the full list of past speakers. Video recordings are available upon request.

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