About this course

The activation program is an intensive, interactive program designed to give high school students a working knowledge of AI terminology, concepts, applications, and ethical concerns.

We want you to have an edge by understanding this rapidly growing technology that is drastically changing our world!

Along with the curriculum, you will go on field trips and hear talks from industry professionals. The course will culminate with a celebration and competition at the Carnegie Science Center!

Syllabus

This program consists of three units. 

Unit 1

To start, we’ll dive into what makes something AI. Then, we will explore concepts that influence AI such as data and computer science. In this unit, you will discover how AI shapes our daily lives and transforms industries. Get ready for interactive examples that bring AI to life right before your eyes. This unit is just the beginning—there’s so much more to learn about the exciting possibilities of AI!

Unit 2

In Unit 2, you’ll explore some advanced topics that drive today’s most exciting AI applications. We’ll cover areas like neural networks, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning, along with generative AI and advanced search techniques. Each topic is packed with interactive activities that demonstrate how these tools power innovations and solve complex problems in real-world scenarios. Get ready to deepen your understanding of AI’s capabilities and potential!

Unit 3

Act as a startup company as you design group projects with the goal of identifying and choosing a real world need, then developing a proposal for a solution which uses AI. The course concludes with an exciting competition among groups as they pitch their ideas to a team!

Prerequisites

•  This course is for rising freshman through senior students.

•  There are no prerequisite requirements.

Forms

Forms that should be completed and brought to the first day of class:

Behavior Contract

W9

Attendance

•  Arrive on time and be ready to begin class at 10AM

•  More than one unexcused absence will result in termination from the AIPI program

•  More than three excused absences will result in termination from the AIPI program.

•  A parent/guardian must email abaumgardner@bgcwpa.org

•  All work missed when absent must be made up in order to receive the stipend and laptop at the conclusion of the course.

•  Attendance is mandatory on August 2nd for the final competition.