Events
Details and reports of our events which have now been presented are available from this link or from the left menu bar item "Seasons past".
Did I mention that all our open meetings are open?
Branch Events
All events are free (in the unlikely event they are not we will let you know up front) and booking is only essential where we ask you to prebook. In that case, please email the , thanks.Artificial Intelligence Demystified
| Date | Wednesday 20 Jan 2010 |
| Time | 18:30 - Tea 6:00pm for 6:30 start |
| Speaker | Professor Adrian A. Hopgood - Dean of Faculty of Technology, De Montfort University www.dmu.ac.uk/technology |
| Location | AS124, Coventry University |
| Abstract | Artificial intelligence has been a rich branch of research for computer scientists and psychologists for over 50 years. The concept of mimicking human intelligence in a computer fuels the public imagination and has led to countless academic papers, news articles, and fictional works. Such exposure has led to high public expectations, despite the incredible complexity of everyday human behaviour and the difficulties in replicating even limited aspects of it. The challenge now is to build a system that can operate across the spectrum of intelligent behaviour from low-level reaction and control to high-level specialist expertise. The achievement of this goal requires a hybrid approach that draws on a variety of different techniques, each of which will be explained at an introductory level. Several practical examples will be presented, ranging from the control of specialised manufacturing processes to the diagnosis of mouth cancer. No prior knowledge of artificial intelligence will be assumed. Professor Adrian Hopgood joined De Montfort University in 2007 as Dean of the Faculty of Technology, having previously worked for Nottingham Trent University and the Open University. He also has industrial experience with Telstra Research Laboratories in Melbourne, Australia and Systems Designers plc (now part of HP). Adrian has published widely and his text book "Intelligent Systems for Engineers & Scientists" is ranked as a bestseller. He is a visiting professor at the Open University, Fellow of the British Computer Society, Chartered Engineer, and a panellist for the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). He holds a doctorate from the University of Oxford and a bachelor's degree from the University of Bristol. |
The Lazy Project Manager - The Art of Productive Laziness
| Date | Wednesday 17 Feb 2010 |
| Time | 18:30 - Tea 6:00pm for 6:30 start |
| Speaker | Peter Taylor - Peter is a dynamic and commercially astute professional who has achieved notable success in Project Management; currently as head of a PMO at Siemens PLM Software supplier of global product lifecycle management solutions. He is also very interested in maintaining a good work/life balance. www.thelazyprojectmanager.com |
| Location | AS312d block, Coventry University,please note new room. |
| Abstract | 'Progress isn't made by early risers. It's made by lazy men trying to find easier ways to do something.' Robert Heinlein Learn about the art of productive laziness with The Lazy Project Manager; understanding what is meant by the 'productive lazy' approach to Projects (and life) and learn how to apply these lessons 'to be twice as productive and still leave the office early'. The session will cover the definition of productive laziness, the science behind the theory (yes there really is some), and will share some personal learning experiences that led to the creation of 'The Lazy Project Manager'. In addition the audience will be led through the three key project stages, one of which the 'lazy' project manager works very hard in and the second they should be in the comfortable position of enjoying the 'comfy chair' safe in the knowledge that the project is well under control. A specific focus will be made on the third area, project closure, which can be done so much better with very little effort but with a significant value add for all 'would be' lazy project managers. Peter's background is in project management across three major business areas over the last 25 years, MRP/ERP systems with various software houses and culminating in a role with KPMG, Business Intelligence with Cognos, and now within product lifecycle management (PLM) with Siemens. He has spent the last 6 years leading PMOs and developing project managers. He is also an accomplished communicator and leader and is a professional speaker with City Speakers International, as well as the author of 'The Lazy Project Manager' www.thelazyprojectmanager.com |
University Challenge
Flight Simulators
Computing at School
| Date | Wednesday 19 May 2010 |
| Time | 18:30 - Tea 6:00pm for 6:30 start |
| Speaker | Simon Humphreys - www.computingatschool.org.uk |
| Location | AS321d Coventry University |
| Abstract | There is a collection of people in the UK collaborating under the heading "Computing at School" (CAS) who are working to address current issues that relate to ICT and Computer Science in school. Although an informal group, they have some influential people on board, and are engaging with exam boards, BCS and other interested bodies at a high level, as well as creating local 'hubs' to support teachers. In this talk Simon will address CAS in general: educational background and challenge and how CAS are trying to effect change through working with partner groups including the BCS and teachers (through local networks and national conferences). The links they currently have with BCS at a national level are proving very significant especially with the new BCS Academy in the pipeline. Simon would like to see the links at local level increase especially as Coventry Branch contains members who are concerned about computing in general and computing in schools in particular; witness this year's Schools Competition. CAS want to develop a national network of local teacher communities where they can share best practice, share their own ideas and resources and also receive training (potentially accredited training). All teachers are especially welcome to attend. YES!!! an open meeting, not an AGM.... |