Seminar: Artificial Intelligence for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Course Description

Content

The "AI for Innovation and Entrepreneurship" course takes you on an immersive journey into the fascinating world of AI, offering a comprehensive, 360-degree view of the field. Designed to be highly interactive and hands-on, the course is centered around practical applications that have been tested in real-world scenarios. 

Here are the key components of the course:

1. Introduction to AI: Understand the foundational principles of (Trustworthy) AI, differentiating it from traditional programming and appreciating the role of machine learning.
2. ML Under the Hood: Delve into the intricacies of machine learning models, their techniques, and the pivotal role of a data scientist.
3. Generative AI and Prompt Engineering: Discover generative AI and prompt engineering, supplemented by hands-on sessions for practical understanding.
4. AI for Entrepreneurship: Learn about the benefits and challenges of trustworthy AI in entrepreneurship, and explore the dynamics of AI startups.
5. AI Strategy: Develop strategic thinking around the application of AI in organizations and learn how to set up an effective AI strategy responsibly.
6. AI Use Cases: Understand machine learning capabilities and the process of ideating and evaluating trustworthy AI use cases.
7. Data Thinking, Data Literacy & Data Strategy: Appreciate the value of data, become data literate, and understand the process of setting up a data strategy.
8. ML Life Cycle: Learn how to implement AI throughout the machine learning lifecycle and get introduced to the concept of MLOps.
9. Governance & AI Ethics: Explore the governmental framework on AI regulation, grapple with ethical challenges, and delve into the concept of building human-centered and responsible AI.
10. Generative AI and the Society: Understand the societal implications of generative AI, enriched by a film screening and panel discussion.
11. History of Automation, Future of Work, Superintelligence: Discuss the wider impact of AI on society, delve into the history of automation, and ponder the future of work.
12. AI Pitches and Introduction to the AI Entrepreneurship Ecosystem: Participate in an interactive session where you will pitch your own AI ideas and get introduced to the AI and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The "AI for Innovation and Entrepreneurship" course is offered by TUM in partnership with the appliedAI Institute for Europe. Leveraging appliedAI's mission to foster deep understanding and proficient application of AI, this course aims to provide students with the vital skills to navigate and shape the dynamic landscape of AI in business. More details about appliedAI Institute for Europe can be found at www.appliedai-institute.de.

 

Objective

Upon successful completion of the "AI for Innovation and Entrepreneurship" course, students will be able to:

1. Understand and Explain AI Fundamentals:
   • Describe core AI concepts, including machine learning methodologies and trustworthiness principles.
   • Explain the state of the art in AI and its key principles.
2.  Apply AI in Practice:
   • Implement AI use cases in both existing organizations and startups.
   •  Assess opportunities for AI applications, identify technical and business requirements, and address potential challenges effectively.
3. Develop Entre-/Intrapreneurial Competence:
   • Formulate strategies for establishing and leading AI startups and AI initiatives in an organizational setting.
   • Identify promising AI use cases and realize them in a business context.
4. Demonstrate Organizational Leadership:
   • Create effective AI strategies tailored to different organizational settings.
   • Critically evaluate the nuances of AI integration in various sectors and navigate the challenges of becoming an AI-first organization.
5. Evaluate Societal, Ethical and Regualtory Implications:
   • Examine the societal impact of AI, considering both its transformative potential and ethical challenges.

Through this course, students will not only broaden their knowledge of AI but also enhance their problem-solving, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial skills. This combination will position them to become influential actors and innovators in the rapidly evolving AI landscape, irrespective of their academic background.

 

Teaching and Learning Method

In the "AI for Innovation and Entrepreneurship" course, we employ a range of dynamic teaching and learning methods that not only deliver a comprehensive understanding of AI and its practical applications in the real world but also promote mindfulness and trustworthiness. 

The course follows an engaging lecture style, utilizing storytelling, real-world examples, and case studies to make complex AI concepts tangible and relatable. These methods provide students with an in-depth understanding of the subject matter. 

Each lecture, lasting between 60 to 90 minutes, incorporates interactive elements such as Slido for real-time participation, quizzes, and in-class surveys, promoting an active learning environment. 

Furthermore, we appreciate the importance of a balanced learning experience. Therefore, we intersperse lectures with short mindfulness exercises. These practices aim to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance the overall learning experience, creating a harmonious learning environment.

In addition to theoretical learning, we host short keynotes by field experts, organizational leaders, and startup pioneers to provide students with real-world insights into AI. This balance of theory and practice offers a well-rounded view of the field, aiding in the students' understanding and appreciation of AI.

Complementing the lectures, online exercises, readings and case studies allow students to apply the concepts they've learned, reinforcing their understanding and enabling them to independently handle real-world scenarios.

 

Requirements

No prior knowledge or specific skills are required for the successful completion of the 'AI for Innovation and Entrepreneurship' course. This module is constructed to be universally accessible, encompassing a broad spectrum of learners irrespective of their educational background. Whether you possess a technical or non-technical background, this course is suitable for all backgrounds. No prior coding or mathematical experience is needed.  All students who are curious and ambitious to harness the transformative power of AI are encouraged to participate.