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EUGENE, Ore. — ����Vlog�ٷ� is pleased to announce that registration for both winter and spring terms is now open, and among the many exciting courses available is CS 123 - Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. This innovative course, developed by Brian Bird, Lead Faculty in Software Development, is designed to give students an essential understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications in today’s workforce. Students can view the full schedule and register by visiting . Winter term classes begin on Jan. 6, 2025.

Bird, who has a rich background in AI from his work at Intel and a longstanding interest in the field, developed the course to address the growing demand for AI literacy among professionals in all industries. “There is a saying that ‘people won’t lose jobs to AI; they will lose jobs to people who know how to use AI,’” said Bird. “This class will equip students with AI skills that they can apply to their careers, helping them become not only more effective but also better prepared for the future of work.”

The course covers hands-on skills, such as prompt engineering—crafting effective requests to large language models—and the creation of custom chatbots using Microsoft Copilot Studio. Students will also engage with a free, online learning resource from the University of Helsinki that serves as both a textbook and a set of interactive exercises, allowing students to earn a certificate of completion in addition to LCC credits.

Throughout the course, Bird encourages students to reflect on AI's impact on society and its ethical implications. Topics include the environmental costs of AI data centers, the risk of misinformation through deepfakes, potential biases in AI training data, and more. “Generative AI has outpaced regulation, which presents risks but also opportunities to use it responsibly. This class will help students understand the full scope of AI’s potential—both its promise and its challenges,” said Bird.

CS 123 - Introduction to Artificial Intelligence is an elective course available to students in any degree program, with plans for further AI courses in the future. Bird envisions expanding the curriculum to include a certificate program, with a new course on AI for computer programmers already in development. This course filled up quickly when it was first offered, and this winter term it will be available online to accommodate more students interested in learning about this cutting-edge technology.

For more information or to register for winter or spring term courses, visit or contact the Computer Information Technology Department at ����Vlog�ٷ�.