DH 399B

This course serves as an introductory exploration of AI agents and their growing role at work and in society. Building on developments in artificial intelligence, we will examine how AI agents are designed to perceive information, make decisions, take actions, and collaborate with humans and other systems to accomplish complex tasks. Students will learn about the technologies that enable agentic systems, including large language models, reasoning frameworks, planning, memory, tool use, and automation. Through case studies and hands-on activities, we will investigate how AI agents are transforming professional practices across sectors such as business, education, healthcare, government, and the creative industries. We will critically examine the opportunities and challenges associated with deploying AI agents in real-world settings. Particular attention will be given to the social, ethical, and economic implications of increasingly autonomous systems. Students will be required to complete assignments in class and at home that develop practical skills in designing, evaluating, and working effectively with AI agents.