Artificial Intelligence Without the Panic:A Human Guide for the Curious, Cautious and Over 50

Artificial Intelligence often arrives in our lives wrapped in either hype or fear: miraculous promises on one side, dystopian nightmares on the other. This lecture will take a different path. We will calmly and thoughtfully explore what AI actually is, what it is not and why it matters deeply to people over 50 — while remaining equally relevant to undergraduates and lifelong learners. The central message is simple: AI is not a replacement for wisdom, but a tool to enhance human enlightenment.

Through stories, demonstrations, graphics, short videos and carefully chosen quotations from the pioneers of AI, the course aims to show how AI can enhance creativity, productivity, learning, health and connection — without surrendering autonomy or dignity. This lecture also will endeavors to confront real potential dangers, including over automation, bias, dependency, misinformation and loss of meaning. Hopefully, attendees will leave not merely informed, but empowered, amused and equipped with a practical framework for using AI wisely.

Instructor Simon Cotter combines a technical background with decades of experience explaining complex systems to both technical and non-technical audiences. He holds a PhD in machine vision and robotics and a BSc (Tech) in electronics. He has had long tenures in the role of chief technology officer in several software businesses and has held senior executive positions within IT businesses and startups, gaining first-hand exposure to multiple technology cycles over this period. He has been a university lecturer and STEM educator. He is currently an IT and business consultant and uses AI within business ventures.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people ages 50 and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university-level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.

Register

Register by Friday, April 10, at 1:30 p.m.