Advanced Composition (305-0-21)
Topic
AI
Instructors
Charles Yarnoff
8474914965
555 Clark St., 243
Office Hours: By appointment
Meeting Info
University Library 4670: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
While generative AI [Gen AI] can automate certain tasks, human expertise remains crucial for optimizing its use. Indeed, the ability to apply critical thinking, creativity, and empathy is what sets humans apart from machines (AI and the future of work, Statista, July 2024). This course is designed to help you learn to use Gen AI critically, responsibly and productively in written communication at NU and later in the career field you plan to enter, whether that be business, healthcare, law, science, engineering, journalism, education, or something else. We will explore ways to use Gen AI in various stages of the writing process--brainstorming ideas, organizing information, and revising drafts--while still remaining firmly in control of that process. We will also examine the ethical issues related to the use of Gen AI, as well as its limitations in terms of accuracy and credibility. As a final project, each student will present the results of their research into the current and prospective uses of Gen AI for communication in their field of interest. This course fulfills the Weinberg Advanced Expression requirement as well as some writing requirements in other Northwestern schools.
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression
No Freshmen