Advanced Computing for Business (2235.YR.015579.1)

General information

Type:	OPT	Curs:	3,4	Period:	S semester
ECTS Credits:	2 ECTS

Teaching Staff:

Group	Teacher	Department	Language
Year 3	Josep M. Martorell Rodon	Esade	ENG

Group	Teacher	Department	Language
Year 4	Josep M. Martorell Rodon	Esade	ENG

While there are no specific prerequisites for this course, a general interest in technology and its implications for business will be beneficial. The course is designed with a focus on qualitative understanding, making it accessible to students regardless of their background in mathematics or STEM disciplines.

This course does not require prior technical knowledge or experience. However, students are expected to exhibit a keen interest in technology and its applications in business. A basic understanding of business operations would be beneficial but not necessary. An intellectual curiosity for scientific advancements, particularly in the field of computing and technology, will greatly enhance the learning experience in this course.

This course has a study load of 2 ECTS, which is equivalent to 50 working hours. These hours will be approximately distributed as follows:

- 30% Lesson hours (including one or two presential visits to laboratories)
- 30% Independent student work (involving reviewing lectures or materials on introductory computing, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies)
- 40% Assignments (small group essay on a real-world case that highlights the application of advanced computing techniques in a business setting)

"Advanced Computing for Business" is a course tailored to provide an understanding of high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI), and upcoming computing technologies' implications on the business landscape. The course structure consists of three immersive, intensive sessions, each integrating theoretical learning with practical case studies and intriguing on-site visits to computing facilities.

The first session introduces HPC and AI, focusing on their ability to spur innovation in scientific and business sectors. It also delves into the geopolitical nuances of digital technologies, rounding off with a tour of one of Europe's formidable supercomputers, the MareNostrum5. The second session explores accelerated computing, emphasizing the role of GPUs and novel computing techniques. It provides hands-on learning about building large language models (LLMs) and illustrates their business implications through tangible examples.

The course culminates with an examination of industrial applications of HPC simulations in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and climate. It then transitions into an exploration of quantum computing and other emerging technologies anticipated to redefine advanced computing's landscape. A visit to a quantum computing facility marks the end of the course. This elective is valuable for future business leaders, given the growing significance of advanced computing in business strategy, innovation, and productivity. No specific prerequisites are needed, but an interest in technology and its business applications is encouraged. By the course's end, students will be well-equipped to navigate and influence a business environment increasingly molded by advanced computing technologies.

Upon completion of this course, students will be expected to:

1. Comprehend the synergy of HPC and AI: Understand how high-performance computing and artificial intelligence can revolutionize business models and boost efficiency.
2. Discern Advanced Computing Impact: Identify the influence of advanced computing across diverse sectors such as business and healthcare, along with its geopolitical dimensions.
3. Investigate Computing Techniques: Gain insights into accelerated computing, GPU development, large language model creation, and their practical business applications.
4. Predict Future Computing Progressions: Grasp the potential of quantum computing and other emerging technologies and their possible impacts on business strategies.

References and materials will be published in moodle for every session.

Group	Teacher	Department
Year 3	Josep M. Martorell Rodon	Esade

Group	Teacher	Department
Year 4	Josep M. Martorell Rodon	Esade