Oct 16-Nov 13 (5 weeks, online): ‘A Crash Course in AI’.

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Why do we get old? Is aging another disease that can ultimately be cured? Can our lifespans be extended? How are centenarians different from others? In this course, we will seek to unravel the mysteries controlling human lifespan by journeying through the science and technology of aging. We will begin by examining current theories explaining the process of aging. This includes an investigation into programmed longevity, which suggests organisms have an inherent set of genes that determine their lifespan, as well as the wear and tear theory, which claims the gradual accumulation of cell damage causes aging. We’ll then explore how men and women age differently (women experience menopause, with increased bone loss, whereas men tend to more quickly experience cognitive decline) and look at research programs at Stanford and elsewhere focused on aging science. We will conclude by examining innovations intended to improve the quality of life as we age, including how technology can help us live longer through enhanced monitoring, predictive diets, and exercise regimens; the ways that artificial intelligence can create robotic and software assistants; and even how we may be able to store our memories and personalities after we pass away. Students will leave this course with a fundamental understanding of human aging, its clinical relevance, and innovations to understand the aging process and treat issues associated with it.

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Online

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Oct 26-Dec 7 (6 weeks online): ‘Live Longer, Live Better: Exploring the Science of Aging’.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is in the news daily. This course will provide a high-level overview of AI techniques. Through pre-built hands-on exercises, we will discuss how current AI platforms compare with how the brain works and how AI systems actually “learn.” Specifically, we will cover neural networks and their applicability to generative AI and large language models. We will also discuss the societal and ethical issues surrounding the real-world applications of AI. By the end of the course, students will understand how AI techniques work so they can (1) converse with AI practitioners and companies; (2) be able to critically evaluate AI news stories and technologies; and (3) consider what the future of AI can hold and what barriers need to be overcome with current AI models. This course is ideal for product managers who interact with data scientists, software engineers who wish for more AI exposure, and anyone in the general public who wants to know how current AI works.

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Online

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