I applied to the Oxford Artificial Intelligence Programme for two reasons.
Firstly, I wanted a broad overview of the real-world aspects of AI. As a technology professional working in technology consulting, I was familiar with many of the technical aspects of AI, but wanted to know more of its context; its history; its potential, risks and challenges; and its legal and ethical connotations. Having reviewed the Oxford programme, it seemed to cover all the topics I needed. Secondly, several colleagues had previously attended the course and had all given it glowing reviews.
My expectations were that this course would help me develop a fuller and more nuanced understanding of AI that I could then apply to help my clients make better and more informed decisions.
An omnichannel learning experience
I was familiar with online learning, having completed a distance learning MBA some years ago. But what was novel in this course was the diversity of channels used in the Oxford programme to embed the module learnings.
The written course material was clear, and well-structured. This often linked to deeper learning moments, delivered with insightful videos from subject matter experts, or real-world demonstrations.
I found the class discussions particularly helpful. These were virtual tutor groups, facilitated by AI expert tutors, where class participants could discuss AI topics relevant to that week’s subject matter. These conversations were deeply insightful, with participants sharing their own experiences and knowledge. These classmates were from dozens of different countries and from almost every industry and sector, each bringing their own unique perspectives on the applications of AI. One conversation with a healthcare professional opened my eyes to the possibilities AI has in this sector and its potential for improving and saving potentially millions of lives. Our tutor group has since set up a LinkedIn group and we continue to discuss interesting AI topics long after the course has finished.
Learning was measured through regular quizzes and weekly graded assessments. These were thought-provoking written assignments that provided further opportunities for learning.
Useful and challenging
The course was delivered in 6 modules which were well written and structured and arranged in a way that helped to tell the story and development of AI. The course started with an overview of the history and background to AI, and then we were straight into the detail of the ‘magic’ inside the AI black box: the types of AI, deep learning and neural networks.
We then tackled the challenging subject of the concept of intelligence. This was a fascinating module and forced me to rethink my mental models of what intelligence is and how it relates to machine or artificial intelligence. We also looked at the impact of AI on the labour market, looking at the human-machine interface, the use of AI to augment human capabilities, and evaluating whether AI will put millions of people at risk of losing their jobs. This led to some very lively but fascinating discussions in our group.
The next module was another challenging topic: the ethical and legal considerations of AI. The technology is developing so rapidly that legal and ethical frameworks are still playing catchup. We discussed this by looking at examples such as the liability of a driver in autonomous vehicle involved in an accident.
The final module discussed the business case for AI in organisations, and this was perhaps the most useful module for me as it brought together all the learnings from the previous modules in a real-world context. I looked at how to incorporate AI into a specific situation in one of my own clients, balancing its likely business benefits with the risks, costs and impacts of the implementation.
Applying my learning
Since completing the programme, I've been able to use the knowledge gained to good effect to help my clients’ businesses. I have delivered AI workshops to a general business audience on the best ways to use AI as well as highlighting some of the areas to be cautious about. I have written AI policies for clients to define the rules as to how staff should (and should not) use AI. And I have been working with a client on AI projects, using generative AI to create document responses, images and video within the civil engineering sector.
A broadening experience
If I could condense my Oxford AI Programme experience into one word, it would be 'broadening.' It has given me a wider and far more comprehensive view of AI as well as a toolkit for understanding, implementing, and responsibly leveraging AI.
To anyone considering this programme, my advice is simple: come with an open mind and prepare to be challenged and inspired.
Find out more aboout the Oxford Artificial Intelligence Programme
