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Emerging Technology, Disruption, and AI

Robert J. Brunner

Explore the frontiers of technology, predict the future, and thrive in an ever-changing world. Our immersive course combines cutting-edge insights, expert guidance, and creative vision to help you become a disruptor, not a bystander. From emerging technology to AI to storytelling and speculative design, gain the knowledge and skills to shape tomorrow's opportunities. Embrace innovation, foresee challenges, and chart your path in the era of disruption. Join us now and unlock your potential to lead and innovate in a dynamic digital landscape.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Emerging Technology, Disruption, and AI
Welcome to Module 1, where we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the dynamic realm of disruption within the context of emerging technologies. This module serves as a foundational introduction to pivotal concepts, tools, and strategies that are fundamental in grasping how emerging technologies can fundamentally reshape industries, businesses, and individual roles. Here, we lay the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of disruption, equipping you with invaluable insights to adeptly navigate the continually evolving landscape of technology-driven change.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores cutting-edge technology, futurism, and AI, which is standard in many industries
Teaches advanced skills for shaping tomorrow's opportunities
Develops understanding of emerging technologies and AI
Taught by Robert J. Brunner, who is recognized for their work in the field
Examines AI and storytelling, which are highly relevant to marketing and business
Covers unique perspectives on technology and innovation

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Reviews summary

Strategic tech & ai foresight

According to learners, this course offers incredibly relevant insights and a strong framework for strategic thinking regarding emerging technologies and AI. Students particularly value Module 2 on Futurism and Scenario Planning, finding its tools applicable to real-world business challenges. While providing a high-level understanding for leaders and non-technical professionals, many reviewers caution that the AI module can be too basic and the course lacks technical depth or hands-on application, making it less suitable for technical individuals seeking deep dives.
Emphasizes critical soft skills for adapting to change.
"I appreciated the focus on mindset in Module 3, which is often overlooked in this kind of course."
"I particularly liked how the course emphasized the importance of a curious and open mindset."
"I found the emphasis on cultivating the right mindset and curiosity particularly valuable for facing new challenges."
Instructors are highly knowledgeable and articulate.
"The instructor's insights were deep, and the examples were highly applicable to real-world business challenges."
"Excellent course for gaining a strategic perspective on emerging tech. The instructor is very knowledgeable and explains complex ideas clearly."
"I found the instructor very knowledgeable and clear in explaining complex concepts related to disruption."
Excellent for developing strategic thinking on future tech.
"This course exceeded my expectations! I particularly enjoyed Module 2 on Futurism and Scenario Planning; it gave me practical tools to think about future trends."
"As a small business owner, this course didn't just teach concepts; it gave me a framework for strategic thinking. I feel much more equipped to navigate the future."
"Highly recommend this course for anyone in a leadership role. The insights on anticipating disruption and fostering innovation are invaluable."
Covers many topics, sometimes at a rapid or broad pace.
"Solid content, but the pace can be a bit fast if you're new to some of these concepts."
"The course covers a lot of ground, perhaps too much. I found some modules disconnected from others."
"The content feels a bit broad, and I wish it focused on fewer topics but in more detail."
Course provides breadth but lacks in-depth technical detail.
"If you're already familiar with AI concepts, you might find it too basic and superficial given the complexity of the topics."
"I was hoping for more practical, hands-on examples... It felt a bit too theoretical at times. Don't expect deep dives into technical applications."
"Disappointing... I have some background in tech, and I found the AI module particularly lacking in depth. Not for technical people."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Emerging Technology, Disruption, and AI with these activities:
Read "Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach"
Reading this foundational book will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of AI.
View Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach,... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book from a library.
  • Set aside specific time each day for reading.
  • Take notes and highlight key concepts.
  • Complete the end-of-chapter exercises.
Seek guidance from experienced AI professionals
Connecting with mentors will provide you with valuable insights, advice, and support in your AI journey.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors in your network or through online platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Reach out to mentors and express your interest in their mentorship.
  • Set up regular meetings to discuss your progress and seek guidance.
Organize and review your course notes and assignments
Regularly organizing and reviewing your materials will enhance your understanding and retention of key concepts.
Show steps
  • Gather and organize your notes, assignments, and any other relevant materials.
  • Review your materials periodically to reinforce your understanding.
  • Identify any areas where you need further clarification and seek help from the instructor or peers.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Solve practice problems on AI algorithms
Solving practice problems will help reinforce your understanding of AI algorithms and strengthen your technical skills.
Browse courses on AI Algorithms
Show steps
  • Identify a reputable online platform or textbook with practice problems on AI algorithms.
  • Set aside regular time each week to work on practice problems.
  • Start with easier problems and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones.
  • Review your solutions and identify areas where you need further improvement.
Follow online tutorials on AI tools and applications
Following tutorials will help you gain practical experience with specific AI tools and their applications.
Browse courses on AI Tools
Show steps
  • Identify a specific area of AI that you are interested in, such as natural language processing or computer vision.
  • Find reputable online platforms or YouTube channels that offer tutorials on the chosen area.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step and complete the exercises.
  • Build small projects to apply your learnings.
Join a study group or online forum for AI
Engaging with peers will provide you with opportunities to discuss concepts, share ideas, and receive support.
Show steps
  • Identify and join a study group or online forum dedicated to AI.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights.
  • Collaborate with other members on projects or assignments.
Create a presentation on the impact of AI on a specific industry
Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge of AI and its implications for a specific industry.
Browse courses on AI Impact
Show steps
  • Choose an industry that you are interested in and research the impact of AI on that industry.
  • Gather data and examples to support your analysis.
  • Develop a clear and engaging presentation structure.
  • Practice your presentation and deliver it to an audience.
Participate in AI-related competitions or hackathons
Participating in competitions or hackathons will challenge you to apply your AI skills in a competitive environment.
Show steps
  • Identify AI competitions or hackathons that align with your interests.
  • Form a team or work individually to develop innovative AI solutions.
  • Submit your entries and compete against other participants.
  • Reflect on the experience and identify areas for improvement.
Develop an AI-powered application
Building an AI-powered application will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on AI Applications
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or opportunity that can be solved using AI.
  • Research and select appropriate AI algorithms and tools.
  • Design and develop the AI model.
  • Deploy and test the application.
  • Iterate and refine the application based on feedback and performance.

Career center

Learners who complete Emerging Technology, Disruption, and AI will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Artificial Intelligence Engineers are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing AI systems. This course may be useful for gaining a deep understanding of the principles and applications of AI, as well as essential skills in designing, developing, and deploying AI-powered solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers are responsible for developing and implementing machine learning models. This course may be useful for gaining a deep understanding of the principles and applications of AI, as well as essential skills in designing, developing, and deploying machine learning solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Data Engineer
Data Engineers are responsible for building and maintaining the data infrastructure that powers AI systems. This course may be useful for gaining a deep understanding of the principles and applications of AI, as well as essential skills in designing, developing, and deploying data engineering solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists are responsible for developing new computing technologies. This course may be useful for gaining a deep understanding of the principles and applications of AI, as well as essential skills in designing, developing, and deploying AI-powered solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialists must be able to quickly learn how to use new technologies and troubleshoot complex problems. This course may be useful for gaining a deep understanding of the principles of AI, building essential skills in troubleshooting AI-powered technologies, and developing a robust foundation in the fundamentals of emerging technologies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Specialist
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business Intelligence Analysts use their knowledge of the latest technologies to improve operational efficiency and gain a competitive advantage. This course may be useful for understanding how to harness the power of AI to improve business practices and identify new opportunities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst
Software Engineer
Software Engineers must be able to adapt to new technologies quickly. This course may be useful for building a foundation in predicting trends, understanding the principles of AI, and learning how to navigate the complexities of technological change.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use data to identify trends and model complex systems. This course may be useful for developing skills in probability and expected utility, learning how to use data to make informed decisions, and gaining a deep understanding of the principles and applications of AI.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst
Technology Consultant
Technology Consultants help organizations understand and implement disruptive technologies. This course may be useful for developing essential skills in evaluating data sources, understanding the impact of emerging technologies on businesses, and using scenario planning to prepare for unexpected technological changes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Consultant
Product Manager
Product Managers are tasked with predicting and preparing for future trends. This course may be useful for building essential skills in futurism and scenario planning, as well as developing a deep understanding of the impact of emerging technologies on the development of new products and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
UX Designer
UX Designers must have a deep understanding of how people interact with different technologies. This course may be useful for building essential skills in evaluating data sources, understanding the principles of AI, and developing new ways to interact with emerging technologies.
See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers must have a strong understanding of emerging technologies to be able to explain them clearly and engagingly. This course may be useful for gaining a robust foundation in the principles and applications of AI, and for developing skills in futurism and scenario planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Data Analyst
Data Analysts must be able to evaluate which technologies to use for different business purposes. This course may be useful for developing essential skills in evaluating data sources and making informed decisions about how to apply different AI techniques to different scenarios.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Information Security Analyst
An Information Security Analyst will be well-equipped with the skills to recognize disruptive technologies and make informed, data-driven decisions about how to protect an organization's infrastructure. This course may be useful for building a foundation in managing cyber threats.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Data Scientist
Emerging technologies and AI are rapidly changing the role of a Data Scientist. This course may be useful for gaining insights into how to manage AI systems, how to make informed decisions using data, and how to lead data-driven initiatives.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Emerging Technology, Disruption, and AI.
Cover image
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of why large companies often fail to innovate, and offers a framework for overcoming this challenge.
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Hardcover
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Audio CD
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Save
Provides a framework for understanding the process of disruptive innovation, which is essential for businesses looking to stay ahead of the competition.
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Paperback
$$
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Deep Learning
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of deep learning, covering a wide range of topics from the basics to the latest advances.
Deep Learning
Paperback
$$$
Deep Learning (Adaptive Computation and Machine...
Hardcover
$$$
Deep Learning (Adaptive Computation and Machine...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, Or How to Build the...
Save
Provides a contrarian perspective on innovation, arguing that successful startups are built on creating something new rather than copying existing ideas.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Hardcover
$$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Save
Provides a practical guide to building a successful startup, with a focus on using continuous innovation to test and validate ideas.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Hardcover
$$
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras,...
Save
Provides a practical guide to building and deploying machine learning models using popular open-source libraries such as Scikit-Learn, Keras, and TensorFlow.
Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras,...
Paperback
$$
Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras,...
Paperback
$$$
Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras,...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Probabilistic Machine Learning
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of machine learning from a probabilistic perspective, covering topics such as Bayesian inference and graphical models.
Probabilistic Machine Learning: Advanced Topics...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
Save
Provides a candid and practical guide to the challenges of building a successful business, with a focus on the importance of leadership and culture.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a...
Hardcover
$$
The Hard Thing About Hard Things [Hardcover] By Ben...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Emprender y liderar una startup: El duro camino has...
Kindle Edition
$
The Hard Thing About Hard Things [Hardcover],...
Paperback
$$
The hard thing about hard things: ondernemen zonder...
Paperback
$$$
Summary of 'The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben...
Audible Audiobook
$
Cover image
Crossing the Chasm, 3rd Edition
Save
Provides a framework for understanding the challenges of marketing and selling technology products to mainstream customers.
Crossing the Chasm, 3rd Edition: Marketing and...
Paperback
$$
(中文) Crossing the Chasm: A Guide to Marketing Disruptive...
Paperback
$$
Crossing the Chasm, 3rd Edition: Marketing and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Elements of Statistical Learning
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of statistical learning, covering a wide range of topics from linear regression to support vector machines.
The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...
Hardcover
$$$
The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...
Hardcover
$$$
The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Reinforcement Learning, second edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of reinforcement learning, covering a wide range of topics from the basics to the latest advances.
Reinforcement Learning, second edition: An...
Hardcover
$$$
Reinforcement Learning, second edition: An...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Competing Against Luck
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of the role of luck in innovation, and offers a framework for increasing the odds of success.
Competing Against Luck: The Story of Innovation and...
Hardcover
$$
Competing Against Luck: The Story of Innovation and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Foundations of Machine Learning, second edition
Save
Provides a rigorous and comprehensive introduction to the field of machine learning, covering a wide range of topics from supervised learning to reinforcement learning.
Foundations of Machine Learning, second edition
Paperback
Check
Foundations of Machine Learning, second edition
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
4-6 hours / week, 4 weeks of study
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructor
Robert J. Brunner
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores cutting-edge technology, futurism, and AI, which is standard in many industries
Teaches advanced skills for shaping tomorrow's opportunities
Develops understanding of emerging technologies and AI
Taught by Robert J. Brunner, who is recognized for their work in the field
Examines AI and storytelling, which are highly relevant to marketing and business
Covers unique perspectives on technology and innovation
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