Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping everyday life in this interactive four-week series that explores real-world applications and practical insights.
Artificial Intelligence and Everyday Life: Understanding, Engaging, and Applying AI in the Real World
March 31 – April 21, 2026
Tuesdays, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Explore the power of artificial intelligence in everyday life — join Lake Forest College for an exciting new community engagement series.
Designed to be informative and interactive, each session will introduce real-world applications of AI and also provide an opportunity for participants to connect with each other and meet members of the College’s senior leadership team to learn more about campus initiatives and engagement opportunities.
Held at the historic Krebs Center for the Humanities and co-led by Dr. Davis Schneiderman and Dr. Ben Zeller, this program will feature engaging presentations, interactive discussions, and practical insights. Each week will highlight a new topic and begin with a social reception featuring food and refreshments.
Reserve your spot
Registration will open in mid-late January.
Registration fee: $400 for the 4-week series.
Registration deadline: Monday, March 23
Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Series details at a glance
When
Four part series held on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Dates: March 31, April 7, April 14, April 21
Where
Krebs Center for the Humanities located near Lake Forest College.
Who should attend
Open to all community members and alumni — no prior experience with AI required.
Cost
$400 for the 4-week series. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Learn more about the series
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant future—it’s already embedded in the tools we use, the decisions we make, and the ethical challenges we face. Whether you’re a small business owner curious about AI tools, a lifelong learner seeking to understand its societal impact, or someone wondering how AI is changing the world around us, this four-week course will meet you where you are and help you get up to speed on this new technology.
Instructors
This course offers a thoughtful, accessible, real-world introduction to artificial science.
Dr. Davis Schneiderman, Executive Director of the Krebs Center for the Humanities and Co-Chair of the Artificial Intelligence Program at Lake Forest College, Director of the HUMAN grant on AI and ethics, and a recognized speaker on AI ethics and education.
Dr. Ben Zeller, Irvin L. & Fern D. Young Presidential Professor of Religion, Project Director for HUMAN grant on AI and ethics, expert on technology and culture, and a researcher on the impact of science and technology on religious and spiritual beliefs.
What you'll learn
- A user-friendly introduction to how AI works (no math or programming required)
- Key debates around AI ethics, misinformation, automation, and bias
- How AI is reshaping industries, from creativity, healthcare, education, and more
- Practical experience with leading AI tools for writing, image creation, communication, and productivity
- Real-world case studies on how individuals and businesses are adapting to AI
Why take this course?
Because AI is here and knowing how to use it wisely is now part of being an informed citizen. This course strikes a balance between thoughtful critique and hands-on experimentation. It’s designed for thinkers, creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how to live and work more thoughtfully with emerging technology.