Foundations of Invisible Machines

This unit introduces learners to the core concepts of hyperautomation and conversational artificial intelligence, separating practical capabilities from marketing hype. Students will practice disciplined note-taking, dispel common misconceptions, and examine the consequences of operating without an intentional design strategy to prepare for applied design and production work in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the fundamental components and realistic capabilities of hyperautomation and conversational AI, distinguishing technical fact from promotional claims.
• Evaluate common myths about conversational AI by comparing at least three myth statements with evidence-based explanations and real-world examples.
• Apply critical design-thinking to identify risks and operational gaps that arise when teams operate without a design strategy, and propose at least two actionable mitigation strategies for a digital media project.
• Demonstrate effective synthesis and communication by producing organized notes and a one-page Key Takeaways summary suitable for guiding follow-on work in later units.