news&views Autumn 2023 | Page 38

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Thought

Jane Thrall
By now the term artificial intelligence or AI is ubiquitous in our language . Artificial intelligence is the development of computer programs that are capable of learning and making decisions on their own , without human intervention . AI is technology that learns , improves itself , and interacts more fluidly with people . It includes machine learning and deep learning , which are types of intelligence that can combine information in different formats .
Advances in machine learning have given rise to many important applications such as image recognition , automatic language translation , and voice-activated virtual assistants .
AI has also made inroads in academic studies , as chatbots can be used to develop curriculum , design examinations , and even evaluate student work . Students can use AI to personalize learning , access tutoring , and help organize written work .
Already in extensive use , online chatbots are computer programs that interact through conversation , providing customer service and realistic interactions with virtual assistants . They use one of the growing number of generative AI tools available , the most notable being ChatGPT . Known as a large language model ( LLM ), ChatGPT 3.5 is available for free , while version 4.0 is available on a subscription basis . Trained on a larger amount of data , the newer version is less likely to make errors . With over 100 million downloads , ChatGPT is the most popular LLM , but others have recently entered the chat , so to speak . Both Google Bard and Bing Chat provide similar services .
At home , AI can help design specialized meal plans , organize appointments , and set reminders . I provided a chatbot with information about my streaming services and a list of my favourite movies , asking for recommendations . It delivered excellent suggestions from the streaming service I use . Additionally , I shared a few items from my refrigerator , and the chatbot suggested a recipe with detailed instructions for me to try .
Chatbots have become an important tool in managing adolescent mental health . Young people can access information , support , and coping mechanisms through online mental health portals .
On the downside , some young people may find they have better emotional support from their
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