History of AI

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/XB_0113

Course Objective

Students acquire knowledge and understanding about the history of computing / AI from various perspectives: computing as a scientific goal, computing as a government (administrative or military) objective / ideal, computing as an economic enterprise (Knowledge and understanding). Students can apply that knowledge and understanding to describe the meanings digital culture has or may have for various people in contemporary society (Applying knowledge and understanding). Students are able to communicate their knowledge and understanding in an effective way, and from various perspectives
- thereby they will be better equipped to reflect on their subject of study (Communication)(Making judgements)

Course Content

Various subjects from the history of computing will be treated. Several highlights will be discussed and placed within the social context of its time. By discussing these highlights from several points of view the history of computing / AI will serve as a way to illustrate the various roles of computing / AI in society.

Teaching Methods

Lectures, and (non mandatory) workgroups and assignments. Optional quizzes helping to study; extracurricular activities for more in-depth info.

Method of Assessment

Written exam; assignments allow students to skip a specifically designated 1 point question in the exam, if the four best assignments are graded with an average score of 6 or better. Resit possible for the exam. In principle resubmission of assignments is not allowed.

Literature

Martin Campbell-Kelly a.o., Computer: A history of the information machine (fourth edition, 2023). Students are required to read chapters 4-15.

Target Audience

Bachelor AI (year 1)

Additional Information

More information with the course coordinator: W&N room A652, [email protected].

Explanation Canvas

On Canvas (in the "Modules" tab) will be announced which chapters you're supposed to prepare for the next lecture. There are optional extra's as well.