A Day At Catalyst
Morning
Today’s theme is ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Global Workforce’. We’ll start by exploring our perceptions of A.I. What language do we use to describe it? What does it make us think of? What are the different ways it can, will and could be used?
After a short break, we’ll go broader and ask how increasingly sophisticated AI might affect us in positive and negative ways? Students will be asked to consider what, if any, careers are A.I. proof and which are likely to be negatively affected by or become redundant as a result of technological advances in this area. Splitting into groups, they will come up with ideas for future-proofing ‘at-risk’ careers and ensuring that AI works for us rather than the reverse.
The final session of the morning, will be given over to a debate with the motion ‘The use of A.I. in warfare will make future warfare more humane. The class will be divided into two groups and each one given a perspective to defend.
Afternoon
After a hearty lunch in Lady Margaret Hall’s dining hall, where students can choose from hot meals, soup or fresh salads, there will be a short period for rest, study or socializing with friends in the common room before afternoon activities get going.
Today, students will need to don their outdoors gear because we are headed for Youlbury Adventure Centre where they will take on a series of group-based challenges including abseiling and crate-stacking (where the team will have to work together to build and climb the highest tower they can).
Morning
Today’s theme is ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Global Workforce’. We’ll start by exploring our perceptions of A.I. What language do we use to describe it? What does it make us think of? What are the different ways it can, will and could be used?
After a short break, we’ll go broader and ask how increasingly sophisticated AI might affect us in positive and negative ways. Students will be asked to consider what, if any, careers are A.I. proof and which are likely to be negatively affected by or become redundant as a result of technological advances in this area. Splitting into groups, they will come up with ideas for future-proofing ‘at-risk’ careers and ensuring that AI works for us rather than the reverse.
The final session of the morning, will be given over to a debate with the motion ‘The use of A.I. in warfare will make future warfare more humane'. The class will be divided into two groups and each one given a perspective to defend.
Evening
There will be time for showers and a well-earned break before dinner where, again, students will have plenty of fresh food options to pick from. Tonight’s entertainment is a talent show at which everyone will have the opportunity to stand up and share with the rest of the Catalyst cohort a skill they are proud of. Those who aren’t keen to perform will have the opportunity to help with the organisation of the night by designing posters, introducing performers or getting involved in the stage management.
Every Day Is Different
Every day looks different but the pace will stay lively and the activities engaging whether you are taking part in a fun, interactive etiquette workshop, running round the City’s landmarks with your team, completing tasks and scooping up points in a bid to win the Oxford Challenge scavenger hunt, or watching a Shakespeare play performed in one of the university’s historic quads.
Towards the end of your course, you will have a one-to-one interview with your course director giving you a chance to practice your enhanced presentation skills, reflect on what you’ve learned, where you’d like to go next, and how you plan to get there.
Catalyst culminates in an awards ceremony on the final night, where students' hard work and efforts in particular areas are recognized and celebrated.