Overview
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we interact with technology, enabling machines to think, learn, and adapt in ways that mimic human intelligence. From intelligent chatbots to autonomous robotics, AI is becoming an essential part of our everyday lives and has the potential to transform entire industries. This unit introduces the core concepts of AI, starting with foundational principles and real-world applications. You will explore key machine learning approaches, including both supervised and unsupervised learning, and examine advanced topics such as reinforcement learning, classical and heuristic search strategies, and deep learning, with a focus on convolutional and recurrent neural networks for tasks like image classification and natural language processing. Additionally, you will examine ethical AI practices, addressing the societal impact of AI and the importance of ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems. The unit also covers cutting-edge trends like cloud-based AI and AI at the edge, which are shaping the future of AI deployment. Through programming and problem-based assessments, you will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern AI technologies.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Pre-requisite: COIT20245 Introduction to Programming
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2025
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Postgraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback - Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student Unit and Teaching Evaluations
Students found it challenging to transition to Python coding, particularly as many of their previous programming experiences were primarily in Java. This made it difficult to engage with the programming language specific content early in the term.
COIT20245 (Introduction to Programming), a core PG unit since Term 1 2024, now teaches Python, providing the necessary background for COIT20277. For students without this background, key Python concepts can be briefly reviewed in the first two weeks of term.
Feedback from Student Unit and Teaching Evaluations
Students expressed a desire for more detailed explanations and practical examples to better understand abstract or complex concepts covered in lectures.
Incorporate additional real-world examples and case studies into weekly lectures and tutorials to enhance conceptual understanding and application. These examples will be used to demonstrate key ideas and support learning outcomes.
Feedback from Student Unit and Teaching Evaluations
Some students noted that feedback on assessments could be more actionable and consistent in terms of clarity and usefulness.
Encourage a coordinated approach among teaching staff to ensure feedback is clear, specific, and consistently aligned with assessment criteria. The teaching team will implement a moderation process for assessment feedback to ensure it is constructive, consistent, and valuable for student learning and improvement.
- Explain key AI principles, including machine learning, deep learning, classical and heuristic search, and differentiate between supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning paradigms.
- Implement machine learning models to solve real-world problems such as image classification and natural language processing in a modern programming language.
- Evaluate the role of emerging technologies, such as cloud-based AI and AI at the edge, in improving the efficiency and performance of AI applications.
- Examine responsible AI practices and ethical challenges in AI development, focusing on ethical standards and societal impact.
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) recognises the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). SFIA is adopted by organisations, governments and individuals in many countries and provides a widely used and consistent definition of ICT skills. SFIA is increasingly being used when developing job descriptions and role profiles. ACS members can use the tool MySFIA to build a skills profile.
This unit contributes to the following workplace skills as defined by SFIA 9 (the SFIA code is included):
- Data analytics (DAAN)
- Data science (DATS)
- Data engineering (DENG)
- Machine Learning (MLNG)
- Programming/Software Development (PROG)
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
1 - Practical Assessment - 30% | ||||
2 - Written Assessment - 25% | ||||
3 - Project (applied) - 45% |
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
1 - Knowledge | ||||
2 - Communication | ||||
3 - Cognitive, technical and creative skills | ||||
4 - Research | ||||
5 - Self-management | ||||
6 - Ethical and Professional Responsibility | ||||
7 - Leadership | ||||
8 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures |
Textbooks
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python From Zero to Hero
Authors: Perry Xiao
ISBN: 978-1-119-82086-4
Artificial Intelligence with Python: Your complete guide to building intelligent apps using Python 3. x
(2020)
Authors: Artasanchez, A., & Joshi, P.
Packt Publishing Ltd
ISBN: 978-1-83921-953-5
Introduction to Responsible AI - Implement Ethical AI Using Python
Authors: Avinash Manure, Shaleen Bengani, Saravanan S
ISBN: 978-1-4842-9981-4
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Anaconda Data Science Platform (Individual - Free Distribution)
- Python 3.10 (or higher)
- Google Colab
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 7th Edition (APA 7th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
a.jayal@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
* Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
- Branches of AI
- Real-world Use Cases
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence with Python (2nd edition), 2020, Artasanchez and Joshi, ISBN 978-1-83921-953-5:
- Chapter 1 and 2
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Machine Learning Overview
* Supervised Learning:
- Classification
- Regression
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 3.1 - 3.2
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Unsupervised Learning:
- Clustering
- Dimensionality Reduction
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 3.3 - 3.4
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Reinforcement Learning:
- Model-based vs. Model-free
- Applications of RL
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 3.6
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Search Techniques:
- Uninformed (DFS and BFS)
- Informed (Heuristic)
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence with Python (2nd edition), 2020, Artasanchez and Joshi, ISBN 978-1-83921-953-5:
- Chapter 10
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Metaheuristic Search
- Genetic Algorithm
- Particle Swarm Optimisation
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence with Python (2nd edition), 2020, Artasanchez and Joshi, ISBN 978-1-83921-953-5:
- Chapter 11
Optimization Algorithms, 2024, Khamis, A., ISBN 978-1-63343-883-5:
- Chapter 9
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Artificial Neural Networks
- Perceptron vs. Multi-Layer Network
- Activation Functions
- Backpropagation and Gradient Descent
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence with Python (2nd edition), 2020, Artasanchez and Joshi, ISBN 978-1-83921-953-5:
- Chapter 19
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 4
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
* Convolutional Neural Networks
- Deep Learning Introduction
- Building Blocks for CNNs
- Image Classification Example
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence with Python (2nd edition), Artasanchez and Joshi, ISBN 978-1-83921-953-5:
- Chapter 21
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 4.3 - 4.8
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
CNN and Transfer Learning
Image Classification with Pre-trained Models
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4:
- Chapter 5
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Applications and NLP Pipeline Stages
Chapter
Artificial Intelligence Programming with Python - From Zero to Hero, 2022, Perry Xiao, ISBN 978-1-119-82086-4: Chapter 10
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Responsible AI Development
- Introduction to Responsible AI
- Building Ethical AI Systems
Chapter
Introduction to Responsible AI: Implement Ethical AI Using Python, 2023, Manure et al., ISBN 978-1-4842-9981-4:
Chapters 1 and 2
Responsible AI Algorithm Design, LinkedIn Learning, Berkun, I., URL: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/responsible-ai-algorithm-design/welcome-to-responsible-ai?u=2147761
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Advanced AI Computing
Chapter
AI at the Edge: Solving Real-World Problems with Embedded Machine Learning, 2023, Daniel Situnayake, Jenny Plunkett, ISBN 978-1-098-12020-7
- Chapters 1-2, 8-9
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Unit Coordinator: Dr Ambi Jayal
Email: a.jayal@cqu.edu.au
1 Practical Assessment
This assignment focuses on applying machine learning techniques to analyse and make predictions based on a given dataset representing a real-world scenario. Students will perform data exploration, preprocessing, model selection, training, evaluation, and interpretation, assessing the performance of their chosen models and drawing meaningful conclusions from the results. The submission comprises three components, including a written report detailing the methodology and findings, a reflection discussing challenges and learning experiences, and the Python code written for the analysis.
Week 5 Friday 11:45 pm AEST
Within 2 weeks of the due date or within 2 weeks of submission (whichever is the later)
The marking criteria are divided into four main areas. Data Preprocessing & Exploration evaluates how well the dataset is handled, including feature analysis and preprocessing steps. Model Development & Evaluation focuses on selecting and training the machine learning models, comparing the performance, and interpreting the results. Report Quality looks at how well the report is structured, the clarity of explanations, and the use of visuals and supporting evidence. Reflection assesses the depth of insights gained from the process and how challenges were addressed.
The marking criteria will be provided on the unit Moodle. Please ensure to read through the marking criteria carefully before submitting your work.
AI ASSESSMENT SCALE - AI PLANNING
You may use Al for planning, idea development, and research. Your final submission should show how you have developed and refined these ideas.
Note: This unit involves programming. For programming assignments you can get examples and ideas from AI, but you must not include code in your program that was generated by AI. You must write the code in your application yourself. If asked, you must be able to explain any of the code submitted and you must be capable of writing similar code under invigilated, test conditions if required to do so. In addition, you must only use the language features and techniques covered in the unit.
- Explain key AI principles, including machine learning, deep learning, classical and heuristic search, and differentiate between supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning paradigms.
- Implement machine learning models to solve real-world problems such as image classification and natural language processing in a modern programming language.
2 Written Assessment
This assignment focuses on solving an optimisation problem using search strategies to find an efficient solution in a real-world scenario. Students will model the problem, implement the selected algorithm, assess its performance, and analyse the results. The assignment involves problem formulation, algorithm design, implementation, testing, and analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of the solution. The submission comprises three components, including a written report detailing the algorithm and findings, a reflection discussing challenges and learning experiences, and the Python code written for the solution.
Week 8 Friday 11:45 pm AEST
Within 2 weeks of the due date or within 2 weeks of submission (whichever is the later)
The marking criteria are divided into four areas. Modelling and Algorithm Design assesses how well the problem is formulated, including data structure choices and the design of the selected search algorithm. Implementation evaluates the correctness and efficiency of the implemented algorithm. Testing and Analysis focuses on running the implemented algorithm, capturing results, and analysing its performance based on relevant metrics. Reflection considers insights gained, challenges faced, and potential improvements.
The marking criteria will be provided on the unit Moodle. Please ensure to read through the marking criteria carefully before submitting your work.
AI ASSESSMENT SCALE - AI PLANNING
You may use Al for planning, idea development, and research. Your final submission should show how you have developed and refined these ideas.
Note: This unit involves programming. For programming assignments you can get examples and ideas from AI, but you must not include code in your program that was generated by AI. You must write the code in your application yourself. If asked, you must be able to explain any of the code submitted and you must be capable of writing similar code under invigilated, test conditions if required to do so. In addition, you must only use the language features and techniques covered in the unit.
- Evaluate the role of emerging technologies, such as cloud-based AI and AI at the edge, in improving the efficiency and performance of AI applications.
- Examine responsible AI practices and ethical challenges in AI development, focusing on ethical standards and societal impact.
3 Project (applied)
This assignment focuses on applying deep learning techniques to solve a real-world problem. Students will preprocess a dataset, modify pre-trained models, train and evaluate their performance, and analyse the results. The assignment emphasises model selection, data handling, training process design, and performance interpretation to assess how well different approaches work for the given task. This is a group assignment with a written report covering the methodology, results, and analysis. Additionally, each student submits an individual reflection discussing their contributions, challenges faced, and lessons learned.
Week 12 Friday 11:45 pm AEST
Within 2 weeks of the due date or within 2 weeks of submission (whichever is the later)
The marking criteria are divided into five main areas. Data Preparation and Preprocessing assesses the quality of data handling, including preprocessing steps and code clarity. Model Selection and Modification evaluates the choice of pre-trained models and how they are adapted for the task. Model Training and Evaluation focuses on the training process, performance metrics, and interpretation of results. Written Report is graded based on organisation, clarity, content depth, and use of visualisations. Reflection is an individual component assessing insights gained, challenges faced, and contributions to the group work.
The marking criteria will be provided on the unit Moodle. Please ensure to read through the marking criteria carefully before submitting your work.
AI ASSESSMENT SCALE - AI PLANNING
You may use Al for planning, idea development, and research. Your final submission should show how you have developed and refined these ideas.
Note: This unit involves programming. For programming assignments you can get examples and ideas from AI, but you must not include code in your program that was generated by AI. You must write the code in your application yourself. If asked, you must be able to explain any of the code submitted and you must be capable of writing similar code under invigilated, test conditions if required to do so. In addition, you must only use the language features and techniques covered in the unit.
- Explain key AI principles, including machine learning, deep learning, classical and heuristic search, and differentiate between supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning paradigms.
- Implement machine learning models to solve real-world problems such as image classification and natural language processing in a modern programming language.
- Evaluate the role of emerging technologies, such as cloud-based AI and AI at the edge, in improving the efficiency and performance of AI applications.
- Examine responsible AI practices and ethical challenges in AI development, focusing on ethical standards and societal impact.
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
