CS 580 / 004Introduction
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ProfessorSean LukeMeetsThursdays, 4:30 to 7:10 PM in David King Hall 1006BookI mostly teach CS580 from lecture notes so CS580 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, as it's particularly useful if you continue on to 687.Programming LanguageUnlike other CS580 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 ClassThis 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 Pagehttp://cs.gmu.edu/~sean/cs580/GradingGrading will be divided roughly as follows: 25% Midterm, 25% Non-cumulative Final Exam, 50% Course Assignments.Honor CodeThe 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.DisabilitiesIf 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. |