The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is hosting a Hackathon sponsored by Intel during the first weekend in September. The event, on September 7-8, 2018, is open to students from all majors from either Florida A&M University or Florida State University. Students will learn about the social and ethical impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) through a series of workshops, hands-on interactive labs, technical talks and a design competition.
Dr. Shonda Bernadin, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, along with a team of student organizers, hope to familiarize students from all majors with the basic concepts of AI and machine learning through this design competition. Participants will discover how the technology impacts daily life, and will brainstorm ways to mitigate the social and ethical problems possible in the future.
The hackathon curriculum offers two tracks to support a range of learners. Track A (“Gain Knowledge”) is for participants who want more theoretical knowledge about AI and ML through workshops.; Track B (“Use Knowledge”) is for participants who have AI/ML knowledge but want to gain more practical experience through hands-on labs. Students will learn about how different software tools work and will explore different case studies that use AI devices.
Intel will be involved every step of the way. Representatives from the company will be guest speakers, workshop facilitators and competition judges in various activities throughout the event. Students will get the opportunity to interact and learn from these professionals. Intel will also host technical demonstrations during the competition expo on Saturday (day 2 of the hackathon).
While there is no requirement on the experience-level of registrants, the theory track is suggested for more beginner or freshman students and the practical track is suggested for advanced or senior students.