Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are having a significant impact on education and research. According to a recent JISC report, Generative AI is “going to be increasingly used in the workplace”. It is also “likely to be pervasive, so banning it isn't an option”.
These tools pose considerable challenges but also open exciting new opportunities. The talk offered listeners with a brief introduction to Generative AI, and an exploration of opportunities and challenges focused on use in education and research.
The Engage talk took place on Wednesday, February 7th, at 12 p.m., Dr Teahan’s lecture delved into the profound impact of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, on education and research. He highlighted the inevitable integration of generative AI into the workplace and emphasizing its pervasive nature. Bill provided listeners with a comprehensive overview of generative AI, followed by an exploration of the many opportunities and challenges it presents, particularly in the realms of education and research.
He spoke about Large Language Models (LLMs), Prompt Engineering and how new jobs are being created in this area, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) where AI are starting to help with tasks that humans usually perform, and superintelligence where the AI system goes beyond what humans can do. Bill briefly touched on some of the many tools such as ChatGPT, Bard, AlphaCode, Github Copilot, Synthesia, Dall-E, and gave some general advice of using AI in education. Finally, Bill offered a glimpse into ongoing research projects within the University, shedding light on innovative initiatives in the field of generative AI.