CS 480 / 002

Introduction
to Artificial Intelligence

Professor

Sean Luke

Meets

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:00 to 4:00 PM, in Planetary Hall 129

Book

I mostly teach CS480 from lecture notes so CS480 will not require a textbook, but you are encouraged to pick up a copy of Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach by Russell and Norvig, generally considered the best AI book.

Programming Language

Unlike other CS480 sections, this one is taught 100% in Common Lisp. Lisp is the classic programming language of AI. You will have to learn Common Lisp on the fly and do nontrivial assignments in it.

About the Class

This course will begin by covering the basics of Lisp and the philosophy of Artificial Intelligence, plus discussion of simple systems, architectures, and platforms (robotics, etc.). From there we will discuss methods in learning (neural networks, decision trees, optimization, and time permitting, reinforcement learning). Then the course will turn to issues in problem solving and search, game design, and representation.

This course will be very challenging but (I hope!) interesting and eye-opening. Artificial Intelligence is a broad interdisciplinary field with a strong tradition in exploratory programming. Learning Lisp is a nontrivial endeavor. You should also be prepared to discuss and think about philosophical issues and be able to draw ideas from areas outside of computer science.

Course Web Page

http://cs.gmu.edu/~sean/cs480/

Grading

Grading will be divided roughly as follows: 25% Midterm, 25% Non-cumulative Final Exam, 50% Course Assignments.

Use of AI Tools

Students are strictly forbidden from using any artificial intelligence or related assistive technology tools to assist them in the development of algorithms, software, documentation, or reports for any course assignments and projects. This is an honor code violation.

Honor Code

The class enforces the GMU Honor Code, and the more specific honor code policy special to the Department of Computer Science. You will be expected to adhere to this code and policy.

Disabilities

If you have a documented learning disability or other condition which may affect academic performance, make sure this documentation is on file with the Office of Disability Services and come talk to me about accommodations.