The Harvard Data Science Initiative (HDSI) is offering Generative AI: Wisdom and Warnings from Harvard Data Science Review, a one-week online intensive course taught by members of the HDSR boards and grounded in materials from HDSR publications. The course uses the AI‑based learning platform developed, trained, and pedagogically supported by Next Gen Learning (NGL). The course provides foundational frameworks for the responsible and strategic use of generative AI and advances HDSR’s mission to be a global forum on everything data science and make data science accessible to all.
HDSR’s Editor‑in‑Chief, Xiao‑Li Meng, Whipple V. N. Jones Professor of Statistics, Harvard University, described the instructor team as a “dream team”—a perfect 50–50 balance between academia and industry, spanning multiple generations within each sector, and representing five different countries. Their complementary expertise ensures a rich, practical, and global learning experience.
Course Structure and Learning Approach
Dates: October 3–10, 2025
Each weekday includes:
- 30 min of self‑paced preparation
- 90 min live online instruction (12:00–1:30 PM EST)
- ~60 min applied project work with AI tutor guidance and peer collaboration
Optional evening lab sessions offer deeper technical exploration and peer discussion. Participants will move from foundational concepts and ethics to strategic use-case development, culminating in a personalized AI Strategy & Use‑Case Playbook. The course includes case studies using real-world resources from DAIN Studios, ensuring strategic frameworks connect directly to industry realities. Ulla Kruhse-Lehtonen, co-CEO of DAIN Studios and a member of HDSR’s advisory Board Member, notes “As industry practitioners, we know professionals need more than hype – they need practical frameworks and confidence to execute. This course fast-tracks that process, by condensing the essentials into one intensive week, giving executives both a sharper scientific understanding of generative AI and a tailored use-case playbook to guide the development and deployment of their company’s AI strategies.”
Instructors and Their Expertise
- Xiao‑Li Meng, Whipple V. N. Jones Professor of Statistics, Harvard University; Founding Editor‑in‑Chief, HDSR. A leading statistician internationally recognized for his work in statistical theory, data science, and innovative pedagogy. Meng spearheaded the course’s development to translate HDSR’s rich content and scholarship into actionable learning for professionals.
- Ani Adhikari, Teaching Professor of Statistics, University of California, Berkeley; Editorial Board, HDSR. A pioneering and internationally renowned educator in modern data science, Adhikari has been instrumental in designing and teaching data science curricula that make statistical reasoning accessible and engaging to broad audiences.
- Stephanie Dick, Assistant Professor, History of Science, Simon Fraser University; Editorial Board, HDSR. An acclaimed historian of computing and AI, Dick brings deep expertise in the historical, social, and ethical contexts of AI, providing participants with a critical lens on the technology’s implications and how it impacts human mind and society throughout the history.
- Dirk Hofmann, Co‑CEO, DAIN Studios; Advisory Board, HDSR. Hofmann specializes in data and AI strategy for business transformation, helping organizations align AI initiatives with concrete, measurable objectives across industries.
- Ulla Kruhse‑Lehtonen, Co‑CEO, DAIN Studios; Advisory Board, HDSR. With a background in advanced analytics and AI implementation, Kruhse‑Lehtonen has led cross-sector innovation projects, emphasizing responsible, effective deployment of data-driven solutions.
- Vinitra Swamy, CEO, Scholé; Early Career Board, HDSR. Swamy leads the development of AI-powered personalized learning platforms and will guide optional evening labs focused on technical exploration and applied prototyping.
Learning Technology Support
The course is delivered via the learning platform of Next Gen Learning (NGL), a South Africa–based ed‑tech company specializing in AI-enhanced professional learning. NGL offers an adaptive, voice-interactive tutoring system—trained on course content—and pedagogical expertise that provide real-time, personalized guidance alongside live instruction.
Case Studies and Industry Insights
DAIN Studios, founded in 2016 with operations across Europe, is a data and AI consultancy focused on data strategy, AI solutions, and training for digital transformation. Their case studies and materials ground participants’ learning in real-world business contexts.
Enrollment
This course is open to professionals globally, especially mid- to senior-level leaders responsible for AI strategy and implementation. All enrollment is subject to approval. No prior technical background is required. Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance from HDSI.