What is AI?

 What is AI?

Artificial intelligence (AI) enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, comprehension, problem-solving, decision-making, creativity, and autonomy. 

Artificial intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. Examples of AI applications include expert systems, natural language processing (NLP), speech recognition, and machine vision.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a set of technologies that enable computers to perform advanced functions, including seeing, understanding, and translating spoken and written language, analyzing data, making recommendations, and more.

Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems that can perform complex tasks normally done by humans, reasoning, decision-making, creating, etc.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

How does AI work?

AI systems work by combining large sets of data with intelligent, iterative processing algorithms to learn from patterns and features in the data that they analyze. Each time an AI system runs a round of data processing, it tests and measures its performance and develops additional expertise.  

Artificial intelligence (AI) enables machines to learn from data and recognize patterns in it to do tasks more efficiently and effectively. It powers a wide range of products and services like Netflix’s algorithm that recommends TV shows and movies based on your preferences or Waymo's fleet of self-driving cars. 

 In general, AI systems work by ingesting large amounts of labeled training data, analyzing that data for correlations and patterns, and using these patterns to make predictions about future states.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ML):

AI tools used at NASA sometimes use machine learning, which uses data and algorithms to train computers to make classifications, generate predictions, or uncover similarities or trends across large datasets.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad field focused on creating systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, while Machine Learning (ML) is a specific subset of AI that focuses on enabling machines to learn from data without explicit programming  Artificial Intelligence, or AI, results from our efforts to automate tasks normally performed by humans, such as image pattern recognition, document classification, or a computerized chess rival.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Machine Learning (ML):

Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that enables computers to learn and improve their performance from data without explicit programming, using algorithms to analyze data and make predictions or decisions.

AI tools used at NASA sometimes use machine learning, which uses data and algorithms to train computers to make classifications, generate predictions, or uncover similarities or trends across large datasets.

Some common methods used at NASA include:

Decision Support

Complex processes require tools to consider imperfect or unknown situations. This method of artificial intelligence considers multiple outcomes and probabilities to inform decisions.

Deep learning

 A subset of machine learning that involves neural networks with many layers. It distinguishes itself from other forms of neural networks primarily through its capability to learn features automatically from data.

Natural language processing

 A subset of machine learning that trains computers to understand, interpret, and manipulate human language.

Neural networks

 A method to train computers to process data in a way that’s inspired by the human brain, using a layered, interconnected neuron-inspired structure.

Why is AI important?

AI is important for its potential to change how we live, work, and play. It has been effectively used in business to automate tasks traditionally done by humans, including customer service, lead generation, fraud detection, and quality control.

AI is important because it enables automation, enhances decision-making, improves efficiency, and opens new possibilities across various fields, from education and healthcare to business and everyday life.

Improved accuracy and decision-making: AI augments human intelligence with rich analytics and pattern prediction capabilities to improve the quality, effectiveness, and creativity of employee decisions.

                                                    Weak AI vs. Strong AI

Weak AI: Also known as “narrow AI,” defines AI systems designed to perform a specific task or a set of tasks. Examples might include “smart” voice assistant apps, such as Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, a social media chatbot, or the autonomous vehicles promised by Tesla

Strong AI: Also known as “artificial general intelligence” (AGI) or “general AI,” possesses the ability to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks at a level equal to or surpass human intelligence. This level of AI is currently theoretical and no known AI systems approach this level of sophistication. Researchers argue that if AGI is even possible, it requires major increases in computing power. Despite recent advances in AI development, self-aware AI systems of science fiction remain firmly in that realm.