Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethics

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/big-data-ai-ethics

Introduction

### Course Review: Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethics In our rapidly evolving digital age, the intersections of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and ethical considerations have become increasingly significant. Coursera offers a compelling course titled **"Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethics,"** which promises to elucidate these relationships while providing students with both theoretical and practical insights. Having completed this course, I am excited to share my thoughts and recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of these pivotal topics. #### Overview The course is designed to give learners context and hands-on experience about two of the primary drivers behind the computational revolution: big data and AI. With an overwhelming quantity of information now available in digital formats and the majority of the global population actively engaged with digital technologies, this course dives deep into both the opportunities and challenges presented by this information overload. #### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Getting Started and Big Data Opportunities** - This introductory module sets the stage for understanding big data and digital footprints. By defining key concepts and exploring societal implications, it helps students identify the immense potential big data offers in various fields, particularly in social science. - **Recommendation:** Make the most of discussions and assignments that challenge you to think creatively about big data's applications. 2. **Big Data Limitations** - Here, the course shifts focus to the limitations inherent in big data. The hands-on experience with IBM Watson's AI capabilities, particularly through Natural Language Processing (NLP), is particularly enlightening. Analyzing personality traits using this technology deepens your appreciation of both the power and constraints of big data analytics. - **Recommendation:** Engage actively with the AI tools provided. Understanding their limitations is as crucial as grasping their capabilities. 3. **Artificial Intelligence** - This module delves into the history and progression of AI. Through case studies, learners gain insight into its applications and the broader implications on various industries. The hands-on exercise of creating a unique artifact using AI is a major highlight. - **Recommendation:** Take the time to immerse yourself in the case studies; they present real-world applications that reinforce theoretical knowledge. 4. **Research Ethics** - The final module addresses an often overlooked and crucial area: ethics in research. With the power of AI and big data comes the responsibility to apply ethical considerations in their utilization. This module helps clarify the ethical frameworks that should guide researchers and technologists. - **Recommendation:** Engage deeply with the ethical discussions and scenarios provided, as they are essential for anyone planning to work in technology-driven environments. #### Conclusion Overall, the "Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethics" course on Coursera is an enlightening and comprehensive journey through crucial contemporary topics. It successfully combines theory with practical applications, emphasizing the need for ethical awareness in the realm of big data and AI. The course is well-structured, making it accessible to both beginners and those with some background knowledge in the field. ### Who Should Take This Course? This course is highly recommended for students, professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the transformative power of big data and AI, particularly those in fields such as social science, technology, law, and ethics. It lays a solid foundation for navigating the complexities that arise from the integration of technology in our daily lives, making it a valuable educational experience. If you are looking to enhance your knowledge in these areas and cultivate a responsible approach to technological advancements, I wholeheartedly recommend enrolling in this course. It’s more than just a learning experience; it’s a crucial step towards becoming a knowledgeable participant in the digital age.

Syllabus

Getting Started and Big Data Opportunities

In this module, you will be able to define the idea of big data and digital footprint. You will be able to discuss how big data is represented in social science and identify the opportunities of big data.

In this module, you will be able to explain the limitations of big data. You will work with an AI interface, IBM Watson, and discover how AI can identify personality through Natural Language Processing. You will analyze the personality of a person.

In this module, you will discover the history of artificial intelligence (AI) and its fields of study. You'll be able to examine how AI is used through case studies. You will be able to discuss the application of AI and you will use AI to create a unique artifact through a hands-on exercise.

In this module, you will be able to define the term research ethics. You will be able to examine the role ethics plays in conducting research. You will be able to discuss how ethics is applied when using AI and big data.