16692 - Computer Science Lab-based Course (G.C)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student:

• Has the knowledge to understand the fundamental structure of the Internet as a packet-switched network and the main services offered by the World Wide Web, such as email, instant messaging, remote connections, the evolution of social networking services or Web2, and the processes of searching for information on the Web.
• Also possesses basic knowledge of using spreadsheets (operations, functions, charts) and database management (creating tables, relationships, forms, and queries).

Course contents

This workshop is designed to provide future educators with the tools and knowledge needed to understand and use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a critical and creative way. AI is transforming both how we interpret the world around us and how we relate to one another. Understanding the potential and limitations of this technology is essential for designing innovative and engaging educational experiences.

Topics Covered:

• Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Introduction to Chatbots (e.g., ChatGPT) Based on Large Language Models (LLMs)
• Exploration of Potential Uses of Chatbots in Education
• Block Programming and Integration with AI

Note: Students are required to enroll in only one workshop and attend all scheduled sessions (attendance is mandatory). Absences will only be permitted for serious and justified reasons, up to a maximum of 6 hours (25% of the total). As a rule, students may not be absent for either the first or the last session of the workshop.

Students who do not attend the first workshop session to confirm their presence with the instructor will be automatically excluded from the workshop. Those who know they cannot attend the first session are required to unenroll (before the lists close). This is to:

• Free up the spot for other students.
• Allow the opportunity to enroll in another workshop (simultaneous enrollment in more than one workshop will not be permitted).

Readings/Bibliography

Specific bibliographic references and online resources will be provided during the course, based on the topics covered and the participants' interests. Support materials (tutorials, guides, examples) will be provided in digital format.

Teaching methods

Participants will be invited to collaborate in person, working in small groups or individually on the topics that will be developed. For this purpose, they may also use their own digital devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, etc.).

Note: Given the nature of the activities and the teaching methods adopted, attendance in this training activity requires prior completion of Safety Modules 1 and 2 in the study environment, which must be completed in e-learning mode.

Assessment methods

At the end of the workshop, students will be invited to design and present an Educational Activity or Project for a local educational service or target group, incorporating the use of technology to achieve specific objectives.

Please note that each 3-CFU (university credit) workshop consists of 24 hours of in-person lessons (8 hours per CFU) and 51 hours of individual study (each CFU requires a total of 25 hours). Therefore, simply attending the workshop will not be sufficient to receive a passing grade—completing all assigned exercises will also be necessary.

At the end of the workshop, the assessment will be expressed as "pass/fail" (idoneità). To achieve a passing grade, students must:

• Attend all lessons and actively participate in the proposed in-person activities.
• Submit all required assignments by the deadlines and follow the instructor's guidelines.

Teaching tools

During the workshop, the classroom PCs will be available for use. However, to allow for greater flexibility in completing activities, participants are encouraged to bring and use their own devices (laptops, tablets, etc.).

Office hours

See the website of Pietro Monari