Celebrating AI Appreciation Day
Mark Your Calendars: AI Appreciation Day on July 16!
Every year on July 16, we celebrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Appreciation Day. This is a perfect occasion to recognize and appreciate the incredible strides made in the field of AI. From simplifying everyday tasks to revolutionizing entire industries, AI has become an integral part of our lives.
For those who've been living under a rock (or just really busy), AI is a branch of computer science focused on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. Whether it's your phone’s voice assistant to those spooky-accurate Netflix recommendations, AI is everywhere, making our lives easier and more efficient.
Why celebrate AI appreciation day?
This day isn’t just for the tech nerds among us (though we love you, too!). It’s also a moment to acknowledge the brilliant minds behind AI innovations and to spark conversations about the ethical and privacy implications of AI as it continues to evolve—because with great power comes great responsibility, right?
One of the most prominent types of AI in recent times is the Large Language Models (LLMs). These models, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Copilot, and Google’s Gemini, are capable of understanding and generating human-like text. They're being used for a variety of applications, from helping students with homework to generating creative content. However, it’s essential to have some safety considerations in mind when you use them.
- AI isn’t always accurate
While AI is incredibly advanced, it’s not perfect. Sometimes, AI can produce incorrect or misleading information, dubbed "AI hallucinations." AI language models provide outputs based on the data they’ve been trained on, which is not always guaranteed to be correct. So, it’s good practice to always double-check the information it provides.
- Avoid inputting personal data
Be cautious about sharing sensitive data with AI tools. Personal Identifiable Information (PII) includes things like your full name, address, phone number, social security number, and any other information that can identify you. Sharing PII with AI tools can pose serious risks because you never know where your data might end up or how it could be used. AI systems store and process vast amounts of data, and if your PII is mixed in, it could be exposed through data breaches or misuse.
- Know the AI guidelines for your child’s schoolwork
Some teachers may welcome the use of AI tools like ChatGPT for research and brainstorming, while others may prefer students to rely on their own skills without AI help. At the start of each term, take a few minutes to review the syllabus with your child and clarify the teacher’s stance on AI. This not only helps avoid any academic misunderstandings but also teaches your child about the responsible and ethical use of technology in their education.
- Keep AI interactions kid-friendly
AI models don’t have built-in filters for detecting or censoring inappropriate material. This means that without adult supervision, your child could be exposed to unsuitable content. Regularly check in on how your child is using AI tools and guide them on safe practices. Setting up family rules for AI use and having open discussions about the potential risks and benefits can help create a safe and productive environment.
AI Appreciation Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements in AI while also fostering a responsible and informed approach to its use. As AI continues to shape our world, let’s stay informed, prioritize ethical considerations, and enjoy the many benefits this technology has to offer.
