How AI Works
VISION REDBRIDGE CULTURE AND LEISURE
Description
In this hands-on workshop, we will explore how AI works at a fundamental level through two separate activities. In the morning session, attendees will learn about neural networks and train an AI to recognise gestures such as waving your arms or moving your head. They will then use those gestures to control a “snake” computer game.
In the afternoon, attendees will explore another AI technique called reinforcement learning. They will build an AI that can learn to solve a simple maze. This part focusses on teaching how computers learn through the use of algorithms. A simplified reinforcement learning algorithm will be explored in detail.
AI training for gestures will be using Teachable Machine and coding will be Javascript/P5.
The goal is to demystify AI to some extent, exposing the essentially simple techniques behind it. This will allow students to engage with AI in a more informed way, understanding its limitations and where it gets its power from.
The approach is different to many AI sessions for children of this age group in that it aims to give an understanding of how AI algorithms work, rather than just applying AI.
This event will take place at Redbridge Central Library in Ilford, which serves neighbourhoods that are among the 30% most deprived in England. Children and young people living in these areas have fewer opportunities to access structured coding activities, specialist guidance and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
By offering this workshop free of charge in a trusted and accessible community library, and by providing the technology and resources required to participate, we will help remove financial and practical barriers.
No previous experience of AI or coding will be required, making the workshop accessible to beginners and enabling participants to build digital skills, confidence and a better understanding of technology with additional challenges for those with previous experience.
In the afternoon, attendees will explore another AI technique called reinforcement learning. They will build an AI that can learn to solve a simple maze. This part focusses on teaching how computers learn through the use of algorithms. A simplified reinforcement learning algorithm will be explored in detail.
AI training for gestures will be using Teachable Machine and coding will be Javascript/P5.
The goal is to demystify AI to some extent, exposing the essentially simple techniques behind it. This will allow students to engage with AI in a more informed way, understanding its limitations and where it gets its power from.
The approach is different to many AI sessions for children of this age group in that it aims to give an understanding of how AI algorithms work, rather than just applying AI.
This event will take place at Redbridge Central Library in Ilford, which serves neighbourhoods that are among the 30% most deprived in England. Children and young people living in these areas have fewer opportunities to access structured coding activities, specialist guidance and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
By offering this workshop free of charge in a trusted and accessible community library, and by providing the technology and resources required to participate, we will help remove financial and practical barriers.
No previous experience of AI or coding will be required, making the workshop accessible to beginners and enabling participants to build digital skills, confidence and a better understanding of technology with additional challenges for those with previous experience.
Location
Age group
12 - 14
Difficulty
Type Offline-Event
Date 25.08.2026 10:30 - 15:30
Address Redbridge Central Library
IG1 1EA Ilford
Max. Participants 20
You want to take part in? Please contact our local contact person.
Participation is free.
Contact VISION REDBRIDGE CULTURE AND LEISURE
Website: Maria Reguera
Mail of contact person: library.information@visionrcl.org.uk
Social media https://www.facebook.com/redbridgelibraries/
https://www.instagram.com/redbridgelibraries/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vision-cl
Share on Social Media
Difficulty
Type Offline-Event
Date 25.08.2026 10:30 - 15:30
Address Redbridge Central Library
IG1 1EA Ilford
Max. Participants 20
You want to take part in? Please contact our local contact person.Participation is free.
Contact VISION REDBRIDGE CULTURE AND LEISURE
Website: Maria RegueraMail of contact person: library.information@visionrcl.org.uk
Social media https://www.facebook.com/redbridgelibraries/
https://www.instagram.com/redbridgelibraries/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vision-cl
Share on Social Media
