Department of Information Sciences and Technology Hosts Artificial Intelligence Fun Day

By Mike Nolan

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 1, 2025) — The University at Albany’s Department of Information Sciences and Technology at the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity welcomed participants of all ages to explore the fun, creative and practical world of artificial intelligence.

“Beyond Coding: AI + Fun Day,” hosted at ETEC on Saturday, showcased how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the entertainment industry — from generating music and digital art to powering interactive storytelling.  

The event featured a coding challenge where attendees worked in teams to create an AI application that helps improve user experiences in entertainment. There was also an AI golf challenge for younger participants, specifically designed to spark their curiosity and creativity in a playful setting.

More than 175 participants —ages eight and up —registered for the event.

Abdullah Canbaz, an assistant professor in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology, organized the event. He plans to host more in the future, helping the public harness the power of AI while avoiding its pitfalls.

“AI is dominating our life already, people are talking to ChatGPT, asking it crazy questions. We want to use events like this to challenge people to think about it a bit more systemically,” said Canbaz, in an interview with WTEN. “Whether you’re an adult, or a younger age, what do you understand about AI, where does it fit into your life?”

Canbaz's research navigates the intersection of security, privacy in networking, network science and applied data science. 

He also directs the AI in Complex Systems laboratory, a cutting-edge research facility on the second floor of the ETEC research and development complex that is dedicated to the study and advancement of AI within the context of complex systems and networks.

More than a dozen student researchers from Canbaz’s lab supported Saturday’s event.