What Is Artificial Intelligence?

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Artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems designed to learn from data and make decisions and predictions or generate content based on that information. AI uses tools such as machine learning and advanced algorithms to uncover patterns and solve problems.

AI is already part of daily life, even if you don’t always notice it. It powers tools like spell-checkers, voice-activated virtual assistants like Alexa or Siri, and self-driving cars. In more specialized fields such as medicine and logistics, AI can help spot early signs of disease, improve patient outcomes, forecast supply-chain snarls and more.

But AI isn’t perfect: It can reflect the limitations of the data it’s trained on, which can lead to inaccurate or biased results. That’s why it’s important to use AI responsibly — with human oversight, ethical thinking and a critical eye.
 

Common Types of AI

Generative AI

Generative AI produces original content, including text, images, music and video, based on prompts. You’ll see this in tools such as ChatGPT or DALL-E 3, or as features in other platforms like Adobe Photoshop’s generative fills.

Analytic AI

Analytic or discriminative AI examines data to identify patterns, sort content into categories and make predictions.

• Common uses include email spam filters and personalized Netflix and shopping recommendations.
• Marketers use it to pinpoint which users see their ads and customize content for different audiences.

Visual AI

Visual AI processes visual data, allowing systems to make decisions based on images or videos. It powers navigation systems in self-driving vehicles, photo-tagging suggestions, facial recognition at security checkpoints, 3D printing from scans and medical imaging analysis.

Machine Learning

Machine learning is a form of AI that gets smarter as it analyzes more data. Instead of being explicitly programmed, it learns patterns, makes decisions based on these insights and improves over time. Large-language models like GPT-4 are built using machine learning.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

NLP enables AI to understand and respond to human speech and communication. It’s what lets Alexa or Google Assistant engage in conversations, respond to questions and provide relevant information.

Ethical Considerations

While AI technologies can be a useful resource to advance any initiative, it’s also essential to understand its limitations, especially when using AI for decision-making, research or content creation.

• How do we cite AI-generated content?
• Is using ChatGPT for an assignment considered cheating?
• How do we ensure transparency and fairness in AI outputs?

For guidance, visit our AI Ethics & Standards page.