# Key Points from IRC Log (August 16, 2011)

- A discussion about AI approaches highlighted the view that machine learning should precede symbolic logic, as "symbolic logic is useless without sensory processing to base it on," suggesting a fundamental disagreement with traditional AI approaches.

- Stanford was offering open online courses, with discussion about a potential bioinformatics course addition; one user was creating a petition to demonstrate interest and mentioned they had already compiled outlines from three different bioinformatics textbooks.

- The Stanford Machine Learning class (ml-class) was identified as covering the same material taught at Hacker Dojo the previous year, with debate about the effectiveness of formal learning systems versus self-directed learning.

- A user discussed developing a more affordable and automated alternative to expensive lab equipment like multi-channel pipettes (referencing a $1,000+ Amazon product), suggesting potential for DIY lab equipment market disruption.

- Science Exchange, a "central database for core research facilities," was shared via TechCrunch article, potentially relevant to open science and research collaboration efforts.

- There was discussion about Python scripting for crawling textbooks, suggesting ongoing efforts to automate knowledge extraction for learning purposes.