Discussion: Reflecting on Your Attitudes Toward AI

Please submit all graded work via Canvas. Participation requirements and grading details are provided in Canvas.

Over the semester, we have explored a wide range of topics related to AI, including:

  • foundational concepts (e.g., symbolic vs. machine learning vs. generative AI)
  • applications of AI
  • prompt engineering and LLM-based tools
  • concerns such as bias, privacy, and environmental impact
  • AI use policies and governance

This discussion asks you to reflect on how your understanding of AI has evolved, and whether your attitudes toward AI have changed.

Step 1: Your starting point

Think back to the beginning of the semester.

Briefly describe:

  • What was your initial attitude toward AI?
  • How much experience did you have with AI tools (if any)?
  • Did you view AI as mostly useful, risky, overhyped, or something else?

Step 2: Your current perspective

Now reflect on your current view.

Discuss:

  • Has your overall attitude toward AI changed? Why or why not?
  • Do you now see AI as more useful, more concerning, or both?
  • How confident do you feel using AI tools compared to before?

Step 3: Changes in your behavior or intentions

Explain how this course may have influenced what you actually do (or plan to do) with AI.

You may consider:

  • Are you more likely to use AI tools in your work, study, or daily life?
  • Are there situations where you are now more cautious about using AI?
  • Have your expectations of AI (e.g., accuracy, reliability, limitations) changed?

Step 4: Provide specific examples

Give one or two concrete examples to support your reflection.

For example:

  • a task you now feel comfortable using AI for
  • a situation where you would avoid using AI due to privacy, policy, or reliability concerns
  • a moment in the course (lecture, reading, hands-on activity, or discussion) that changed how you think

Expected outcome

Your post should demonstrate:

  • Reflection on how your understanding of AI has developed over time
  • Awareness of both the benefits and limitations of AI
  • Ability to connect course topics to your own experience and future practice
  • Use of specific examples to support your reasoning