Foundations of AI and Programming:
Unleashing the Power of Technology
Overview
In this course, students will gain a strong theoretical and practical foundation in programming and AI. They will explore machine learning and deep learning theories, drawing connections to human brain information processing, and learning about AI model construction, evaluation, and performance improvement. The course will cover applications of deep learning, such as image recognition and language processing, along with discussions on ethical considerations in AI.
Alongside these lectures, students will build essential programming skills in Python through dedicated workshops. These skills will be crucial for a two-week AI project, where students will apply their knowledge in a hands-on environment, sharpening their problem-solving abilities.
Module Structure
The lectures will be interactive, blending core concepts with discussions and icebreakers. Teaching will be interspersed with group discussions to encourage students to think critically about questions and problems.
Two initial workshops will introduce students to the basics of Python programming. In the following workshops, students will collaborate in small groups of 3–4 to work on an AI project, selected from options provided by the academic tutor.
Week 1
Day 1
Lecture 1: Introduction to General Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence
Day 2
Lecture 2: Fundamentals of programming and data structures
Day 3
Lecture 3: Introduction to Machine learning
Day 4
Lecture 4: Information processing and representation in the human brain
Lecture 5: Deep learning basics: Artificial neural networks – Theory
Day 5
Lecture 6: Deep learning basics: Artificial neural networks – Applications
Week 2
Day 6
Lecture 7: Building AI models
Day 7
Lecture 8: AI model testing and performance enhancement
Day 8
Lecture 9: Ethics and AI, and
Project presentations
Projects
​The Oxford Scholars Programme offers an innovative approach to learning through project-based learning. During the programme, you will have the opportunity to work on one project under the guidance of an academic tutor, in a one-on-one setting. This hands-on experience will allow you to apply knowledge learnt during lectures in a practical context, culminating in a project proposal or report by the end of the programme.
Object Identification and Classification
Develop a model to identify and classify objects. Example projects: handwritten digit/text reconstruction, wildlife monitoring, number plate recognition, facial recognition, face mask detection.
Learn from the Best
Students are guided by an exceptional team of accomplished professionals from Oxford, bringing expertise and a commitment to excellence. Below are some distinguished individuals leading this transformative learning experience:
Dr. Cristiana Tisca
AI & Programming
Post-Doctoral Researcher in Neuroimaging at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford