Essential AI terms you need to know

General AI concepts

There are three general concepts that form the foundation of modern AI systems and are essential for understanding the capabilities, limitations and potential applications of AI technology. These three are:

Artificial intelligence (AI):

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad field of computer science focused on creating systems or machines that can perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence. These tasks include understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, making decisions and learning from experience.

As you delve into the world of AI, you may encounter terms like "generative AI" and "traditional AI." Traditional AI uses predetermined rules and algorithms to complete specific tasks, such as analyzing data and drawing conclusions (for example, the recommendations Netflix makes for you based on your streaming history, or a computer program that makes medical diagnoses based on x-rays).

Generative AI goes a step further by actually creating new content (copy, imagery and more) by learning from data patterns and answering prompts; well-known generative AI programs include ChatGPT, Bard and Midjourney.

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Machine learning (ML)

ML is a subset of AI that focuses on developing algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data.

Unlike traditional programming where explicit instructions are provided, in ML, algorithms iteratively learn patterns and relationships from data without being explicitly programmed to do so.

> Read more | What is machine learning (ML)?

Deep learning (DL)

DL is a subset of ML that is inspired by the structure and function of the human brain's neural networks. DL algorithms, also known as artificial neural networks, consist of multiple layers of interconnected nodes (neurons) that process and transform huge volumes of data and unstructured content through a series of mathematical operations.

Types of machine learning (ML)

Each type of ML provides a different approach to performing tasks and solving problems, allowing for a wide range of applications across different fields.

Let’s look into the different types of ML and how they help businesses achieve their goals:

Supervised learning (SL)

Supervised learning involves algorithms learning from labeled data, where training examples already contain correct answers.

The algorithm receives input-output pairs, then learns to map input to output, aiming for accurate predictions with new, unseen data.

Self-supervised learning (SSL)

Self-supervised learning is a technique where a model learns to make predictions about certain parts of the input data using the other parts as context.

This involves training the model to predict missing words within a text based on the surrounding context, essentially learning from the data itself without explicit human annotations.

Unsupervised learning (UL)

Unsupervised learning utilizes unlabeled data, lacking corresponding output labels for training.

Instead, the algorithm seeks to uncover hidden patterns, structures or relationships within the dataset by clustering similar points together to simplify its representation.

Reinforcement learning (RL)

In reinforcement learning, an agent learns to make sequential decisions through interactions with the environment, aiming to maximize a cumulative reward signal.

Unlike supervised and unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning is based on learning through trial and error by taking actions in the environment, observing the resulting rewards and adjusting behavior to achieve long-term goals.

Modeling concepts

Modeling concepts serve as the bedrock for predictive analytics and insightful decision-making. Understanding these three concepts is pivotal in understanding the meaning behind data-driven modeling:

Algorithm

An algorithm is a set of step-by-step instructions or rules designed to solve a specific problem or perform a particular task.

In the context of ML and data science, algorithms are used to train models and make predictions based on input data.

Neural network

A neural network is a computational model inspired by the structure and function of the human brain.

It consists of an interconnected network of artificial neurons organized into layers, including an input layer, one or more hidden layers and an output layer.

Overfitting

Overfitting occurs when a ML model learns to capture noise or random fluctuations in the training data rather than the underlying patterns or relationships.

This phenomenon occurs when a model becomes too complex or flexible relative to the amount of training data available, resulting in the model fitting the training data extremely well but performing poorly on new data points.

Evaluation metrics

Evaluation metrics are vital tools for assessing model performance. From accuracy to precision and recall, understanding these metrics is key to making informed decisions and driving progress. Let’s unpack the types of evaluation metrics:

Accuracy

Accuracy is calculated as the ratio of the number of correct predictions to the total number of predictions made by the model.

While accuracy provides a general overview of the model's performance, it may not be suitable for imbalanced datasets, where the classes are not represented equally.

Precision

Also known as positive predictive value, precision measures the proportion of true positive predictions out of all positive predictions made by the model.

Precision is particularly useful when the cost of false positives is high, and it complements accuracy by providing insights into the model's ability to avoid false positive predictions.

Recall

Recall focuses on the ability of the model to correctly identify all positive instances, regardless of the number of false negatives.

It is calculated as the ratio of true positives to the sum of true positives and false negatives, making it essential in scenarios where missing positive instances is more critical than incorrectly classifying negative instances.

F score

The F score provides a balanced measure of a model's performance by combining both precision and recall into a single metric, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the model's effectiveness.

It is calculated as the mean of precision and recall, where a higher F score indicates better overall performance.

Neural networks and deep learning

Neural networks and deep learning stand at the forefront of innovation, revolutionizing how machines perceive, learn and generate insights from data. Let’s understand how these powerful paradigms mimic the workings of the human brain, enabling computers to autonomously learn complex patterns and make decisions:

Convolutional neural network (CNN)

A CNN is a deep learning model specifically designed for processing structured grid data, such as images or audio.

CNNs are characterized by their ability to automatically learn hierarchical patterns and features directly from raw input data.

Generative adversarial network (GAN)

A generative adversarial network (GAN) is a type of deep learning model that consists of two neural networks: a generator and a discriminator, which are trained simultaneously through adversarial learning.

The generator network learns to generate synthetic data samples that are similar to the training data, while the discriminator network learns to distinguish between real and fake samples.

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Natural language processing (NLP) and understanding

A subfield of AI, NLP forms the cornerstone of human-computer interaction. It is these interconnected fields that empower machines to understand, generate and respond to human language, revolutionizing the way we communicate and interact with technology. Let’s learn how:

Natural language processing (NLP)

NLP is a field of AI that’s focused on enabling computers to understand, interpret and generate human language in a way that is both meaningful and contextually relevant.

NLP techniques employ ML algorithms, statistical models and linguistic rules to process and analyze text data, allowing computers to extract insights and infer meaning.

Natural language understanding (NLU)

NLU is a subfield of NLP that focuses on enabling computers to comprehend and interpret the meaning of human language by extracting meaning, context and intent from text data.

For various applications, NLU is essential in powering virtual assistants, chatbots, information retrieval systems and sentiment analysis.

Natural language generation (NLG)

NLG generates human-like text/speech by converting structured data/other forms of input into coherent and contextually relevant language, allowing computers to communicate with humans in natural language.

By adopting NLG techniques to create text based on predefined templates, rules or statistical models, it is able to generate personalized and adaptive responses using ML algorithms.

Automatic speech recognition (ASR)

It is a technology that enables computers to analyze audio input and convert it into written text.

ASR is used in voice interfaces, virtual assistants, dictation systems and voice-controlled devices, allowing hands-free interaction and improving accessibility for users.

AI in operations

AI is revolutionizing how businesses handle their IT infrastructure and ML models. AI ops and ML ops are two key methodologies driving efficiency, reliability and innovation in IT operations and ML deployments. This is how they work in practice:

AI ops

AI ops combines various practices, tools and techniques to automate and optimize tasks such as monitoring, troubleshooting, incident management and resource allocation in IT environments.

This allows organizations to gain deeper insights into their IT infrastructure, improve system reliability and enhance the overall efficiency of IT operations.

> Read more | AI in the workplace

ML Ops

ML ops focuses on managing the end-to-end lifecycle of ML models in various tasks, including model development, deployment, monitoring and maintenance to ensure that the models perform effectively and reliably.

By establishing robust ML ops processes and workflows, organizations can accelerate the deployment of its solutions, improve model performance and minimize operational overhead.

> Read more | The role of AI in transforming higher education

AI ethics and frameworks

Ethical considerations and robust frameworks are crucial in the world of AI. AI ethics guide the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, while AI frameworks provide the tools and resources necessary to build innovative and ethical AI solutions. Let’s take an in-depth look:

AI ethics

AI ethics refer to the moral principles, guidelines and considerations that govern the development, deployment and use of AI technologies.

It seeks to ensure that AI systems are developed and deployed in a responsible and ethical manner, aligning with societal values and promoting the well-being of individuals and communities.

AI frameworks

AI frameworks facilitate the development, deployment and management of AI applications and systems with a set of prebuilt components, algorithms and tools for building and training ML models.

This accelerates innovation by providing developers with the resources needed to build sophisticated AI solutions efficiently and effectively.

Specialized terms

When it comes to technology and data-driven solutions, these specialized terms encompass a wide array of techniques that are reshaping industries and driving innovation. Let’s deep dive into them:

Adversarial machine learning (AML)

AML is a field of study within ML that is focused on understanding and defending against adversarial attacks on ML models, such as manipulating input data to deceive or compromise the performance of ML models.

Through methods such as adversarial training, robust optimization and adversarial example detection, AML techniques aim to develop robust ML models that are resilient to these attacks.

Computer vision

Computer vision is a branch of AI and computer science that focuses on enabling computers to interpret and understand visual information from the real world.

The algorithms analyze and process digital images or videos to extract meaningful insights, recognize objects, detect patterns and perform tasks such as image classification, object detection, facial recognition and image segmentation.

Pattern recognition

Pattern recognition is a field of study that focuses on the automatic detection and identification of patterns or regularities within data.

It encompasses a wide range of methods, including statistical analysis, ML algorithms and signal processing techniques, to enable automation, decision-making and insight generation from complex datasets.

Predictive analytics

Predictive analytics is the practice of using statistical algorithms and ML techniques to analyze historical data and make predictions about future events or outcomes.

It leverages patterns, trends and relationships within data to forecast future behavior or identify potential risks and opportunities.

Prescriptive analytics

Prescriptive analytics is an advanced form of analytics that goes beyond predicting future outcomes to provide recommendations on the best course of action to achieve desired outcomes.

Some of the factors considered include multiple possible actions, constraints and objectives to determine the optimal decision or strategy in a given scenario.

Human-in-the-loop (HITL)

HITL is a model or system where human insight is integrated at various stages of the process to provide feedback, validation and decision-making.

This approach combines the strengths of human intelligence and machine automation to ensure that tasks are completed in a precise manner while leveraging the distinctive capabilities of human judgment.

Roles in AI/ML

There are specialized roles within the AI and ML world that are crucial for turning data into actionable insights. Let's explore the key roles driving the success of AI and ML projects:

Data architect

A data architect is responsible for designing and implementing the overall data architecture and infrastructure within an organization.

This involves defining the structure, organization, integration and management of data assets to support business objectives and enable data-driven decision-making.

Data manager

A data manager is tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations of data management processes and systems within an organization.

To ensure the quality, integrity and availability of data assets, this role includes data collection, storage, cleaning, integration and maintenance.

Data scientist

A data scientist is a professional skilled in extracting insights and knowledge from data using advanced analytical, statistical and ML techniques.

Data scientists analyze large and complex datasets to uncover patterns, trends and relationships that can inform business decisions and drive strategic initiatives.

Additional concepts

Innovations in AI and ML are driven by a diverse set of concepts and technologies. Let's explore some additional foundational concepts and uncover their significance in modern applications:

Brute force search

Brute force search is a straightforward search method that systematically explores all possible solutions to a problem, typically through exhaustive trial and error.

This approach checks every possible option until a solution is found or all possibilities have been exhausted.

Recommendation engines

Recommendation engines analyze user data and preferences to provide personalized suggestions for products, services, content or actions.

These systems leverage techniques from ML, data mining and AI to understand user behavior, preferences and patterns.

Text to speech (TTS)

Text to speech (TTS) is a technology that converts written text into spoken voice output.

TTS systems analyze input text and generate synthetic speech that sounds natural and human-like.

The importance of understanding AI terminology

Having a firm grasp of AI terminology will equip you with the language and knowledge needed to navigate and contribute to advancements in artificial intelligence. It fosters effective communication, collaboration and innovation across industries, paving the way for responsible, ethical and impactful applications of AI that benefit society as a whole.

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