COMPETING IN THE AGE OF AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) makes it possible for machines to learn from experience, adapt to new inputs and perform human-like tasks. Most AI examples that you hear about today – from chess-playing computers to self-driving cars – heavily rely on deep learning and natural language processing. Using these technologies, computers can be trained to accomplish specific tasks by processing large amounts of data and recognizing patterns in the data. The aim of the course is to introduce the most important topics and current challenges both from a technological and a business point of view. Indeed, artificial intelligence has transformed the way people think, learn, and work in various areas, with every company seeking to introduce Artificial Intelligence in their domain. Studying AI and Machine Learning opens up a world of opportunities to create cutting-edge technologies in diverse sectors.

No prerequisites are needed to attend this course.

Knowledge and understanding: The course will deal with both theoretical and practical concepts to understand how the digital transformation by means of AI is wide spreading in our daily lives. This course provides knowledge and analytical resources that will enable students to understand AI technologies and their impact in business and society. Applying knowledge and understanding: Throughout the course, the students will have the opportunity to critically analyze several examples of AI-driven business case studies. Furthermore, interactive demonstrations of such case studies will be discussed. Making judgments: We expect students to be able to analyze digital systems and how they are used inside an organization. They are expected to be able to discuss and evaluate suitable solutions driven by machine learning and AI to solve real live case studies in business environments. Communications Skills: The course will give the students the possibility to understand terms and concepts related to digital systems. The students will be able to communicate their ideas, proposals, analysis, and critical reasoning in the digital world in the most effective and appropriate way. Learning skills: This course will allow students to understand how information and data can be used to increase productivity and problem solving in business scenarios.

This course explores how to engage with artificial intelligence as a practical and strategic tool in academic, creative, and professional contexts. Students will develop the ability to use AI systems critically and constructively, learning how to prompt effectively, analyze outputs, and apply AI tools to real-world problems. Emphasis is placed on ethical use, sustainability, and long-term thinking. Through team-based activities and guided experimentation, students will gain the skills to use AI not just as a support tool, but as a means to act responsibly and creatively in the age of intelligent systems.

Students can find class materials on the e-learning platform (slides, lecture notes, demos).

The following teaching methods will be used during the course: - Traditional Lecture - Guided activities - Hands-On Labs and tool interactive demonstrations - Team projects - Peer evaluation

Assessment is based entirely on project work. Students will engage in team-based assignments linked to each of the four main sections of the course, allowing them to progressively apply and integrate concepts related to competing in the age of AI. Active participation and in-class collaboration are strongly encouraged. Students who do not attend regularly may complete a comprehensive individual alternative, designed to reflect the complexity and interactivity of the team-based path. The group project submission material includes: - A summary (maximum 2 pages) of the scenario, the AI tools used to solve it, and some business considerations and applications. - The collection of the AI tools used. - A short PowerPoint presentation. On the other hand, students who prefer the essay option must write between 10 - 12 pages, providing a comprehensive discussion about one of the topics discussed throughout the course. The deadlines for submitting the group project and the essay will be provided at the beginning of the course.

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