The History and Foundations of AI

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 7
• Convenors: Dr Alex Grzankowski, Dr Sophia Connell
• Tutor: Dr Alex Grzankowski
• Assessment: two two-hour examinations (40% and 60%)

In this module we offer a comprehensive exploration of the historical development and theoretical underpinnings of artificial intelligence (AI). You will gain a nuanced understanding of the key concepts, methodologies and historical milestones that have shaped the field of AI.

From its inception to the present day, AI has captivated the imagination of researchers, engineers and philosophers alike. We will trace the evolution of AI from its roots in logic and mathematics to its current manifestations in machine learning, deep learning and neural networks. Through a combination of lectures, readings and discussions, we will explore the contributions of pioneering figures such as Alan Turing, John McCarthy and Marvin Minsky, and examine the intellectual currents that have influenced the development of AI.

The module is designed to be accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds, including computer science, engineering, mathematics and philosophy. Whether you are a novice exploring AI for the first time or a seasoned researcher seeking to deepen your understanding, this module offers a rich and engaging exploration of one of the most fascinating and consequential fields of study in the twenty-first century.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• describe the historical development of artificial intelligence, including key milestones and the evolution of AI from its roots in logic and mathematics to contemporary machine learning, deep learning and neural networks
• identify and explain the key concepts, methodologies and intellectual currents that have shaped the field of AI
• analyse the contributions of pioneering figures such as Alan Turing, John McCarthy and Marvin Minsky, and their impact on the development of AI
• evaluate the theoretical underpinnings of AI and their relevance to current AI technologies and applications
• engage with a variety of historical and contemporary readings to critically assess the development and impact of AI on society
• discuss the interdisciplinary nature of AI, integrating perspectives from computer science, engineering, mathematics and philosophy to understand its comprehensive foundations
• conduct independent research on a specific historical or foundational aspect of AI, culminating in a well-structured and analytically rigorous paper
• communicate effectively about the historical and theoretical aspects of AI, both in written and oral forms, to a range of audiences.