Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - IAT 111 D100

Artificial Intelligence Today and Tomorrow: Systems, Applications and Ethical Challenges (3)

Class Number: 6329

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Jan 23, 2026: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 26 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Provides non-technical students with a comprehensive exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, their underlying principles, societal implications, and transformative potential. Through a non-technical, interdisciplinary approach, students will develop a nuanced understanding of AI systems, examining their technological foundations, practical applications, and critical ethical considerations. Primarily for non-SIAT majors; SIAT students may take for credit, but does not count for SIAT degree requirements. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This introductory course provides students from all disciplines with a comprehensive exploration of artificial intelligence technologies, examining their underlying principles, practical applications, and profound societal implications through an accessible, non-technical approach. Students will journey through the technological foundations of AI systems, beginning with simple neural networks and progressing through deep learning architectures, large language models, and visual AI systems including generative models. The course emphasizes hands-on engagement with current AI technologies while developing critical frameworks for understanding their capabilities, limitations, and transformative potential across diverse fields including healthcare, business, creative industries, and scientific research.

Central to the course is the integration of ethical considerations throughout the learning experience, with dedicated "AI Ethics Corners" examining issues of algorithmic bias, workforce displacement, privacy concerns, technological accountability, and societal equality. Students will engage with guest speakers from various sectors, participate in practical workshops with AI tools, and complete projects that demonstrate both technical understanding and critical analysis of AI's impact. Through a combination of in-class quizzes, reflective essays, and hands-on projects, students will develop the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to become informed participants in our increasingly AI-driven society, prepared to leverage these technologies responsibly in their chosen fields while contributing to important conversations about AI's role in shaping our collective future.

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.