AI Pioneers: An Interdisciplinary, Project-Based Artificial Intelligence Intensive

What do self-driving cars, Alexa, and iPhone’s face recognition technology have in common? They are powered by modern advances in artificial intelligence. Whether you’re interested in law, healthcare, art, or economics, AI is poised to transform every discipline and industry. Led by Stanford, MIT, and Ivy League alumni and graduate students, participants will explore the underlying concepts and motivations behind technologies such as computer vision, neural networks, and natural language processing.

In this course, students will first learn the foundations of machine learning and its applications. The first half of the program introduces AI’s core technologies—applications, foundational concepts, and programming tools—through live lectures and coding labs. Students will learn how to write and execute Python code using Google Colab, explore different types of machine learning models, and apply those models to real data sets.

In the second half of the course, students will work on an instructor-led group project that applies AI to a discipline of their choice (e.g., music, healthcare, astrophysics, finance). They will utilize the programming skills developed in the first half to design and present their project.

Students in the AI Pioneers program will spend each day in the classroom during regular school hours, working on their laptops to practice coding, build projects, and collaborate with classmates. To be fully prepared, students must bring their own laptop and charger each day; headphones are recommended for certain labs and videos.

Educational Goals

  • Build strong computational thinking skills by learning Python fundamentals and applying them in real-world coding projects.

  • Develop an understanding of artificial intelligence by exploring how machines recognize patterns, make predictions, and solve complex problems.

  • Apply AI for social good by designing projects that address challenges in healthcare, disaster relief, and assistive technologies.

  • Grow ethical awareness and communication skills by reflecting on the impact of AI and presenting projects in a collaborative environment.

Instructor: Raina Yan & Inspirit AI Instructor
Open to: Grades 6–8
Limit: 12 students
Cost: $1,240
Dates: March 9–13, regular school hours