Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

PS50061 Artificial minds: Minds, machines & persons

Credits: 6

Level: Masters

Semester: 1

Assessment: ES80OR20

Requisites:

Before taking this unit you must take PS50036 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS30019

Aims & Learning Objectives:
This course introduces some recent research in the field of computer-based modeling and simulation of human activities which require the intelligent use of knowledge, otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence. We will approach machine intelligence through two complementary questions: could human intelligence be simulated, equalled or even exceeded by machines? Can the machine-metaphor still help us understand human cognitive and social processes? Students will understand the relevance of research in A. I. To larger questions concerning the nature of intelligence and of scientific approaches to the replication of complex attributes such as intelligence. MSc/Diploma students will additionally be expected to relate their understanding to issues addressed in MSc core units, specifically the significance of boundary issues (human, animal and machine) and the debates on public understanding of scientific research on AI and robotics.
Content:
Machine-metaphors for human thinking and reasoning now compete with evolutionary biology and neurology for influence in both psychological and sociological approaches to human behaviour. The course will provide historical background, will introduce some of the main approaches and research projects in the field, and will set out two main areas of debate: criticisms made by AI researchers about rival approaches, and arguments of philosophers, sociologists and psychologists about the attempt to simulate intelligence. Students will become familiar with key authors and texts, and will learn to evaluate claims about computer programs relating to:
* their power, intelligence or other capabilities
* their influence upon psychological and social theory
* their continuing role in psychological and social research
* their influence on our notions of expertise, intelligence, creativity and humanity. MSc/Diploma students will undertake research for an additional essay on the impact of AI research on human/machine boundaries. This unit shares teaching with the undergraduate unit of the same title PS30019.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07