10-202: Introduction to Modern AI (CMU) (modernaicourse.org)

Carnegie Mellon University has announced a new course titled "10-202: Introduction to Modern AI," set to launch in Spring 2026, which will delve into the foundational concepts and practical implementations of modern AI technologies, particularly machine learning methods and large language models (LLMs) akin to ChatGPT and Gemini. This course aims to demystify the seemingly complex operations of LLMs, emphasizing that their underlying techniques are relatively straightforward. Students will learn to create a basic AI chatbot while gaining insights into supervised learning, optimization techniques, and the mechanics of LLMs, all encapsulated in a manageable coding environment comprising several hundred lines of code. This initiative is significant for the AI/ML community as it seeks to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, addressing the growing demand for education in hands-on AI development. The course structure includes programming assignments, quizzes, and exams, fostering an environment where students can engage deeply with the material. Notably, the policy encourages students to utilize AI tools as learning aids without relying on them excessively for homework, reinforcing the understanding of core concepts while preparing for in-person assessments. This strategy aims to cultivate a generation of practitioners who are not only skilled in AI programming but also understand the principles behind these transformative technologies.