Aims and Fit of Module

This module is designed to provide students with a practical understanding of core AI concepts and their real-world applications. Students will learn about common GAI applications, prompt engineering, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Agentic AI, and user-centered design principles, alongside ethical considerations and professional codes of conduct. The module also emphasises the development of English communication skills through written and oral presentations. By the end of the module, students will be able to develop functional AI Agents for applications such as personalised recommendation systems, AI assistants, chatbots, content generators, and creative arts tools.
By bridging core computing and engineering principles with contemporary AI practice, this module provides essential knowledge and skills for graduates in these disciplines, as intelligent systems are now embedded across all sectors - from manufacturing and robotics to healthcare and smart infrastructure.

Learning outcomes

A. Explain fundamental concepts of Generative AI, including prompt engineering, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and Agentic AI.
B. Apply user-centered design principles to design AI applications that cater to diverse user populations and accessibility needs.
C. Collaborate within a group to develop a functional AI agent prototype and evaluate its performance against defined criteria.
D. Discuss ethical considerations and associated risks (e.g., bias, misinformation, privacy, transparency) in AI application design and deployment, with reference to professional codes of conduct.
E. Communicate design concepts, development processes, and project outcomes through written and oral presentations, demonstrating proficiency in academic and professional English.

Method of teaching and learning

This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, lab sessions, and tutorials. Lectures cover theoretical foundations of AI application design, including Generative AI (GAI), prompt engineering, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Agentic AI, user-centred design principles, and ethical considerations aligned with professional codes of conduct. Guest lectures from industry practitioners provide insights into current AI development practices. Lab sessions focus on hands-on development, where students work collaboratively to design, implement, and evaluate functional AI agents using the university’s AI development platform. Tutorials are dedicated to supporting English communication skills, helping students prepare written documentation and oral presentations for their project demonstrations.
The module employs an integrated assessment strategy. An in-semester examination provides early formative and summative feedback on core concepts, design reasoning, and ethical reflection, encouraging students to consolidate theoretical knowledge. A group project, culminating in a product demonstration and oral Q&A, assesses collaborative development of a functional AI agent prototype. This combination ensures that foundational understanding and professional communication are developed alongside hands-on application.