AI Foundations, Risks, and Futures

This capstone unit synthesizes core concepts about what AI is (and is not), the jargon and history behind it, and how it is transforming business functions. Learners evaluate risks and ethical concerns and prepare actionable recommendations for how organizations can adapt to near- and long-term AI developments.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze how artificial intelligence is changing key business functions (e.g., marketing, HR, operations, finance) by comparing at least three real-world examples and identifying impacts on roles, processes, and outcomes
• Differentiate between AI systems and non-AI tools by applying accurate definitions and terminology to classify and justify the categorization of five technologies or applications
• Evaluate ethical, legal, and operational risks associated with AI deployment by assessing scenarios and proposing at least three specific mitigation strategies appropriate for a business context
• Develop a concise short-term and long-term action plan (12–36 months) that outlines organizational steps to prepare for AI-driven changes, including training, governance, and technology adoption priorities