Is removing subjective human choice from HR decisions going to create more problems than it solves? We are all very aware of human failings when it comes to people management in the workplace. To that extent the handing over of some management decisions to algorithms and AI (a term for which there is no common definition but which can cover a scenario where many algorithms work together with the ability to improve their own function) may seem like a no brainer. The technology is certainly out there and being aggressively marketed. The rise of the gig economy is tied into the increase in the use of algorithms and AI, as the software began to be used on platforms such as Uber in an attempt to optimise the deployment of workers.

In this AI episode of Breaking Banks, JP Nicols hosts Alfred Cowger author of The Threats of Algorithms and A.I. to Civil Rights, Legal Remedies, and American Jurisprudence: One Nation Under Algorithms. JP and Al explore AI and algorithmic models and the intense policy debates surrounding the legality of, and liability for, these advanced machine learning applications. Then enjoy a special compilation of the best AI moments in Breaking Banks history. We begin with AI and Robots- Brett King hosts Ben Goertzel to learn about Sophia the social humanoid robot. We hear from Greg Cross of Soulmachines to learn how AI can be used for good and are digital humans the answer?

Despite what Hollywood suggests, AI won't mean the end of the world. In fact, it promises a bright new future. Elon Musk is probably one of the most famous technologists on the planet today, so when he voices fears of artificial intelligence (AI) running amok, by telling state leaders in the U.S. that AI poses an existential threat to humanity, people listen. After all, we have already been conditioned by science fiction to equate AI to the robot revolution, when machines surpass humanity and either take over the world or simply destroy it. The reality of AI, however, is far more mundane.

Last month I watched Claire Beale of Campaign interview Lorraine Candy of Elle at Magnetic's annual Spark event. Speaking "editor-in-chief to editor-in-chief", Beale asked Candy what role human editors had in an age of data and algorithms. Candy's answer was simple: "We [editors] are the walking algorithms". Her contention was well received in the room, but perhaps unsurprising given her role. AI is also becoming mainstream.

This paper suggests some teaching strategies for Algorithms and AI courses. These courses can have a common goal of teaching complex problem-solving techniques. Based on my experience teaching undergraduates in a small liberal-arts college, the paper offers concrete ideas for working toward this goal. These ideas are supported by relevant studies in cognitive science and education. Together, they provide a plan for structuring lessons and assignments to help student become better problem-solvers.