A Beginner’s Guide to Informatics and Artificial Intelligence

Embark on a transformative learning journey with this book, a concise and engaging short course for those taking their first steps into the realms of information science and AI. Ideal for undergraduates, graduates, and professionals, this book lays a sturdy foundation upon which readers can build whether their aim is to undertake research projects, pursue a career in technology, or simply understand the workings of the digital age.

The learning objectives are:

* Foundational understanding: Build a sturdy foundation by introducing basic concepts and gradually progressing to advanced topics.

* Practical problem-solving: Foster the ability to solve real-world problems through guided exercises and application-oriented learning.

* Holistic knowledge: Provide a holistic understanding of information science and AI, empowering learners to contribute meaningfully to the future of these disciplines.

The key features are:

* Comprehensive coverage: Explore computer science basics to advanced AI techniques for a holistic understanding of the field.

* Engaging writing style: Complex concepts made approachable for beginners without sacrificing depth.

* Practical exercises: Guided hands-on exercises develop problem-solving skills, ensuring a practical understanding of the material.

* Enriched learning experience: Vivid examples, flowcharts, and interactive elements bring concepts to life. E-lectures of the book "Informatics and Artificial Intelligence for Beginners I & II" will be released on Springer Video soon to further enhance the learning experience.

Wei Weng is an outstanding educator and researcher in the fields of information science, artificial intelligence (AI), and industrial engineering. Her teaching skills were underscored during her time at Waseda University, where her course "Introduction to Intelligent Systems" earned her the WASEDA Teaching Award in 2017. Later, at Kanazawa University in 2021, her course “Information Science” stood out among a pool of over 500 courses, becoming one of the two essential courses required for completing the university’s Data Science Special Education Program. The e-lecture materials she developed for the course were submitted not only to participate in national e-learning material contests but also to the Ministry of Education of Japan as the representative lecturing materials of Kanazawa University. In 2022, the Ministry of Education granted approval for the issuance of a nationally recognized Data Science certificate to students completing the program.