Artificial Intelligence 101: Practical Uses, Controversies, and Societal Impact

Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? This interactive two-week class is designed to show you how you can use AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini in your everyday life. We will also discuss current thought leaders’ opinions and controversies in AI.
 
Week 1 covers the practical basics: what these tools actually are, how to write a good prompt, and hands-on practice with real examples.
 
Week 2 dives into what leading voices — from tech CEOs to Nobel-winning economists to the Pope — actually think, and AI's growing impact on jobs, money, and law.

Cynthia Perry has a BS in Applied Mathematics and an MBA, and spent her career in marketing analytics, competitive intelligence, and strategic planning. She is adept at making complex information easy to understand. An experienced Osher instructor, she has taught courses on political polling, big data, bionics, and Quaker history. Cynthia is a researcher at heart and was an early adopter of ChatGPT in her everyday life. Cynthia currently lives in Denver, where she enjoys teaching, writing, and silver smithing.
 
No technical background required — just curiosity. Note: AI helped me develop this course and the course description!