Week 1 Discussion: Building Our Learning Community – Introductions and ML Aspirations

Learning Objectives

By the end of this discussion, you should be able to:

  • Introduce yourself and connect with classmates from diverse backgrounds
  • Articulate your motivations and goals for learning machine learning
  • Begin fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment

Discussion Prompts

📝 Instructions

For your initial post, please respond to all three prompts below. Use headings or clear structure to organize your response.

👋 1. Your Background

Tell us a bit about yourself:

  • Your name
  • Your current role, industry, or field of study
  • One interesting fact about yourself that will help us remember you

🤖 2. Your ML Journey

Reflect on your path toward machine learning:

  • What sparked your interest in ML?
  • What do you hope to gain from this course?
  • How do you envision using these skills professionally or personally?

🌟 3. Your Superpower

Imagine your own machine learning-powered tool:

  • If you could build any ML application, what would it be?
  • It can be realistic, creative, or fantastical—just tell us why it matters to you

Peer Engagement Requirement

Find someone whose background either resonates with you or offers a completely different perspective. Respond to their post with thoughtful engagement:

  • Ask a follow-up question
  • Share a related experience
  • Explore a contrast in your ML journeys

Avoid simple agreement posts—focus on meaningful interaction.

Submission Guidelines

Initial Post

  • Due: Thursday @ 11:59 PM
  • Length: Minimum 250 words (2–3 paragraphs)
  • Address all three prompts clearly and specifically

Peer Response

  • Due: Sunday @ 11:59 PM
  • Respond to at least one classmate’s post
  • Provide a thoughtful comment or question that invites further discussion

Grading Rubric (2 Points Total)

Component Points
Initial Post 1.0
Peer Response 1.0
Late Submission −0.5/day

✅ Tips for Success

  • Be sincere and specific—this is your chance to start strong and connect
  • Use this space to begin developing a support network
  • Encourage your classmates and celebrate different experiences