AI: An Overview
What is AI?
AI is an acronym for "artificial intelligence". Most currently, AI is used in chatbots and can be used for human-like conversation and to get information quickly. Common examples of AI you might see in your day-to-day life include: digital assistants such as Siri and Alexa; GPS mapping systems; and searching tools such as Google.
Terms to Know
AI (artificial intelligence): The simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans.
LLM (large language model): A type of AI trained on a large dataset to generate natural sounding language. Like ChatGPT, Claude, Grok, Gemini, and Copilot (built on ChatGPT)
Generative AI: AI models which can create new data or output (language, music, video and images) based on patterns in their training data.
Agentic AI: AI systems designed to autonomously pursue goals and workflows with limited human supervision.
AI literacy: Ability to critically evaluate AI technologies; communicate and collaborate effectively with AI; and use AI as a tool online, at home, and in the workplace.
Algorithmic literacy: Awareness of the use of algorithms in online applications, platforms, and services, knowing how algorithms work and how to critically evaluate algorithmic decision-making; having the skills to cope with or influence algorithmic operations.
Hallucination: When an AI system generates outputs which are incorrect, irrelevant or even nonsensical. Because generative AI/LLMs are made to produce natural sounding language, they seem to be confidently asserting something which is untrue.
Sycophancy: The tendency in AI systems to prioritize user approval over truth. Most models are known to produce language which is flattering, gushing, overly agreeable or obsequious.
Further Reading
“AI vs. Machine Learning.” Google. Cloud.google.com/learn/artificial-intelligence-vs-machine-learning
“AI and Our Energy Future.” MIT Technology Review. technologyreview.com/supertopic/ai-energy-package/
How to Think About AI: A Guide for the Perplexed. Richard Susskind.
“Thinking—Fast, Slow, and Artificial: How AI is Reshaping Human Reasoning and the Rise of Cognitive Surrender.” Steven Shaw and Gideon Nave. papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6097646
(Some) Books in Our Collection:
How AI works : from sorcery to science
Visualizing Generative Ai : How Ai Paints, Writes, and Assists
The Ai-driven leader : harnessing AI to make faster, smarter decisions
The AI dilemma : 7 principles for responsible technology
The age of AI : and our human future
Mastering AI : a survival guide to our superpowered future
Find more resources in our collection HERE.