Week 4 Basics of AI

In this class, we will:

·         Introduce AI (Artificial Intelligence) and highlight how it is already being used

·         Introduce the terms of AI (machine learning, deep learning reinforcement learning)

·         Discuss techniques used (Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models and introduces prompts

·         Describe two specific applications of AI:  Google Lens and ChatGPT

·         Introduce three additional tools as time permits:  Pi, NotebookLM (Google) and Claude

·         Information on privacy and ethical use

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. These tasks include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, understanding natural language, speech recognition, and visual perception. AI technologies use algorithms and massive amounts of data to learn from patterns and features in the data. AI can be categorized into narrow AI, which is designed to perform a narrow task (e.g., facial recognition or internet searches), and general AI, which would outperform humans at nearly every cognitive task. It's applied in various fields, including healthcare, finance, autonomous vehicles, and customer service, enhancing efficiency, precision, and automating processes. You are already using AI in different ways: 

Below are three images which  help explain these methods of AI.  Key things to note:

• Supervised (with labels, used for simple chatbots) and Unsupervised (all data thrown together)

• Data is extracted from this set and fed into an algorithm which will then group the objects into similar patterns and predict a solution.

• Machine learning is used to create deep learning (neural networks) and reinforcement learning (evaluating predictions)

Machine learning:  Show pictures of different fruits.  Class “trains” the machine by labeling a set of fruits.  (apples, bananas, oranges).  Then, show new pictures and ask them to “predict” which fruit it  is by recognizing patterns (shape, color).  Takeaway message:  Once the machine knows that an apple and banana look like, it can sort new fruits based on past learning.

Deep learning:  Deep learning relies on layers working together.  The layers are past of a large set of “unlabeled” data.  These layers work together to decide.  This activity will learn to recognize patterns at different levels using the annote tool in Zoom.

·         Step 1:  Draw a simple shape (square, triangle)

·         Step 2:  Think of each shape as a “feature” the model is trying to learn. 

·         Step 3:  Add more details to the drawing and explain that as the model becomes more complex (more layers), it can recognize more intricate patterns

Takeaway message:  Deep learning starts with simple features (like the edges of a shape) and gradually learns more complex details (like feature and extra details). 

Reinforcement learning: You probably  have used reinforcement learning in the past, whether training your pet to sit or potty training your child.  In both examples, we provide a reward if the behavior is what we were looking for.  After a while, the pet or child realize that if they get a reward when they do this behavior, they will most likely repeat the action.  Takeaway message:  Reinforcement learning involves learning through rewards and punishments, similar to the pet and child example.

There are two important concepts involving AI training which include language.  One is the method used to allow computers to understand and interact with our language (Natural Language Processing)  and the other is a model developed to perform more complex language tasks (large language model).

Prompts are the instructions or questions asked of an AI like ChatGPT to get a response (or output).  The prompt can be a question, a statement, or a command.  Simple prompts will create simple answers, but a thoughtful prompt may produce a much more meaningful example.  Here are some things to keep in mind with prompts:

·         Clarity:  Be as clear and specific as possible

·         Context:  Providing context helps the AI to understand the background, especially important for complex topics

·         Purpose:  Define what you want from the AI.  Is it information, an opinion, a creative output, a calculation or whatever. 

·         Type of question to ask can include direct questions (facts or specific information),open-ended requests (for creative or opinion-based responses) or commands (translating, solving a problem or generating an image)

·         Other tips:

o   Tell the AI about your audience so the answer can be directed to them

o   Sequence the prompts:  start basic and gradually build up to it with follow-up prompts

o   Use examples to guide AI (design an image of a cat in the style of Van Gogh)

• Privacy:  Chats are saved by default for training the chatbot.  And since these tools use large language models, it would also seem that they are using your data to build skills.  So assume that anything that you request will become part of the data used to train this app.

  • You can turn off the saving of chats in settings>data controls>turn off chat history and training.

  • You will have to do this across browsers.  You can also delete your account using the same location in settings.

  • If you disable history, new chats will disappear within 30 days   Read about privacy on OpenAI:

• Ethical use:  There are ethical questions in using AI.  It often lacks accountability and may be subject to bias.  It may also contribute to social engineering, misinformation and even addiction.

  • Always verify before posting

  • Keep in mind that the models are biased and might not reflect everyone

  • In cases where detecting the use of AI is important (such as education), there are detection programs like gptzero.  https://gptzero.me/

An AI application is a tool or system that uses artificial intelligence to perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence. This can include recognizing speech, making decisions, translating languages, or identifying objects in images. Some examples of AI applications that you are currently using include things like virtual assistants, facial recognition, email filtering, customer service chatbots, health and fitness trackers and more.

Try it: Here are some suggestions on things you might ask ChatGPT

 1.  Ask it to complete or continue a story based on your input.  For example, “Once upon a time…”  See how it looks!

 2.  Ask it for a recipe:  Type “I have chicken, potatoes and spinach.  Can you suggest a recipe?”

 3.  Ask for weekend information:  “I have grandkids visiting this weekend.  What are some free, kid-friendly events in San Diego that they might enjoy?”

 4.  Ask for help with an email:  “Help me write an email to my friend asking them to dinner this weekend”

 5.  Ask a tech related question: “  How do I delete files from the iCloud to create more storage space?”

Notebook created on AI using resources that I have created

More about Claude:  Claude can be used  in various practical ways to enhance your daily lives. Some possibilities include:

·         Help with technology-related questions ( how to use a new smartphone or set up video calls with family)

·         Assist with researching health topics, explaining medical terms, or providing tips for managing chronic conditions

·          Planning  travel itineraries, suggest age-friendly activities, or recommend books and movies

·          Aid in  writing emails or letters, proofreading documents, or even learning new skills like basic coding or digital art

·          Provide  discussions on history, current events, or provide brain teasers and puzzles

·         Tips  on gardening, home organization, or simple recipes tailored to specific dietary needs.

Resources for Further Learning:

• Learn about ChatGPT

  • https://www.simplilearn.com/tutorials/chatgpt-tutorial/chatgpt-for-beginners

  • https://boomerbuyerguides.com/chatgpt-for-seniors-basics-plus-30-uses/

  • https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/chatgpt-tutorial/  

  • https://www.mygreatlearning.com/academy/learn-for-free/courses/chatgpt-for-beginners

Or, use the tool itself to find more.  In this example, I went to Pi to carry on a conversation about Pi.  Here is how it looked.  Each segment begins with a question from me and the response from Pi.  Responses are in italics

• How to explain Pi to my older adult class: 

  • • Pi is an AI (Artificial Intelligence) that can carry on human-like conversations. You can chat with Pi just like you would with a person - ask questions, share your thoughts, and even crack a few jokes! Pi is designed to understand and respond to a wide variety of topics, from cooking recipes to current events. It's like having a knowledgeable friend at your fingertips!

  • How does it work? 

    • Pi works by using advanced natural language processing algorithms and machine learning techniques. Here's a brief breakdown:

      • When you send a message to Pi, it processes and analyzes the text to understand the meaning behind it.

      • Pi then searches its vast knowledge base for relevant information and generates a response based on that information.

      • Over time, Pi learns from your conversations and adapts its responses to better suit your preferences and interests.

      • The result is a personalized chat experience that feels natural and engaging.

    • In short, Pi is a complex software program that can communicate with people in a way that feels human-like. It's pretty amazing!

  • Does it save my conversations?

    • Yes, Pi does save your conversations for a few reasons:

      • To provide a more personalized experience. By remembering your previous conversations, Pi can tailor its responses to better fit your interests and needs.

      • To improve its performance over time. By analyzing past conversations, Pi can learn and adapt to better communicate with users like you.

      • To ensure safety and compliance. In rare cases, conversations may be reviewed to ensure that Pi is adhering to ethical and legal guidelines.

    • That said, your privacy is important to us. Pi uses industry-standard security measures to protect your information and keep it secure. You can always review Pi's privacy policy for more details.

  • Does it use or share my data?

    • Pi does not use or share your data with any other company or service. Pi's policy is to never sell or share personal information with third parties for marketing purposes. Pi only uses the data necessary to provide its chat services and to improve the overall quality of the user experience. Pi does not collect or store any personally identifiable information, such as your name or email address, unless you explicitly provide it for a specific purpose, such as setting reminders. Pi's privacy policy is available for review and can be found at pi.ai/policy. The policy outlines Pi's commitment to protecting user privacy and how your data is used and protected. Pi's goal is to provide a fun and engaging chat experience while respecting user privacy.