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Computer science: is generative AI the problem or the solution?

This is a Computer science Subject Spotlight with Dr Aminu Usman from the University of Sunderland. An interactive, cinematic course taster experience to allow students to gain insights into what it's like to study Computer science.

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In this fascinating Subject Spotlight, Dr Aminu Usman presents: Computer Science: Is Generative AI the Problem or the Solution? It’s a thought provoking journey, beginning in episode 1 with an overview of the link between computer science and our everyday lives, an explanation of the daily impact, why Computer Science is so important and influential, and how Computer Science impacts industry. In episode 2, Aminu provides an overview of generative AI, introduces and explains the notion of deep fake, and looks at the ethical issues surrounding it. In episode 3, Aminu presents three fascinating case studies that enable us to begin thinking critically about generative AI. One positive use, one negative, and one that really makes you think about the future and where our society is heading. To wrap up this intriguing Spotlight, Aminu thinks broadly about Computer Science, before presenting an interactive two-part activity that should stimulate your Computer Science senses! He finishes with a round up, thinking critically about everything we have discussed.

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About University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland is a top 50 UK university (Guardian University Guide 2024) and a global institution which offers life-changing opportunities for over 20,000 students across its four campuses in Sunderland, London and Hong Kong. With over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses, placement opportunities and the option to study full or part-time, there’s something for everyone at Sunderland. The University of Sunderland has also received five stars for teaching, inclusiveness, employability and facilities in the QS World University Rankings 2023 and is in the top 10 UK universities for social inclusion (The Times Good University Guide 2024).

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Meet the academics

Dr Aminu Usman

Dr Aminu Usman is Head of Computer Science at The University of Sunderland, with a background as an internationally recognised computer and data science expert. Dr Usman completed his PhD at Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand, where he researched trust-based protocols for wireless mobile networks and security. Nowadays, his main research interests include trust, privacy and the security of packet-oriented networks. He also spends his time mentoring graduate students, being actively involved in outreach programs in cybersecurity, alongside serving on a number of committees as a reviewer and editorial board member for journals. Dr Usman is a member of many professional organisations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and is serving as a reviewer for the journal of Networking and Telecommunications and the International Journal of Computers and Application among others. 

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Remarkable & relatable academics

Learn from some of the UK's finest and most decorated academics as they give you a genuine, insightful, and engaging experience of studying their courses at their universities.

Interactive quizzes and activities

Have a go at fascinating interactive quizzes and activities, then get meaningful and intuitive feedback from the academics to see how you've done.

Content to enhance students university applications

Hear direct from the academics what's expected of you in your university application, and the things you can do to improve your chances of getting on the course you most desire!

Certificate of completion

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Subject Spotlight?

Subject Spotlights fuse education and entertainment to bring you the new way of researching your university options.

Entirely free and available on-demand, you can choose to engage with the content in the way that best suits you - whether that's in bite-sized chunks or in binge-sessions!

Why should I check out Subject Spotlights?

Get a real, representative impression of what pursuing a subject at university is actually like, so that you can make the right decision for you.

Stand out from the competition by completing a Subject Spotlight to gain the most relevant references and evidence for your personal statement.

Who is this Spotlight for?

This subject spotlight is made for students aged 16 and above, that are considering applying to University, particularly to study the subject in the title, or similar areas.

How should I talk about completing a Subject Spotlight on my UCAS application?

Completing a Subject Spotlight shows the university you're applying to that you've taken time outside of school to engage with relevant content.

The easiest way to include it would be to briefly mention one or two things you learned from it and how/why those learnings have furthered your desire to study the subject. We don't want to prescribe an answer because it's your personal statement but this is a good starting point!