AI Explaned
AI for View Askewites
Editorial notice:
First an apology. A few folks did not care for my rather polemic post about our current political/government "situation." I'd like to think it's not because they disagree with what I said but simply don't want to hear about it. Whatever. It occurred to me, though, that even I can't face reading anything about this mess in the paper so a light bulb comes on!
I promise I will not knowingly share any of my own apparently frightening political views with you; I will do my very best to keep them to myself. That doesn't mean that any of us can ignore what's going on or normalize it but you're a smart person and can figure out what, if anything, you need to do given your own situation. (But if you want some suggestions just ask.)
Enough said.
 |
| Albert AI at your service |
At its
core, AI operates by processing large amounts of data through algorithms—sets
of rules that guide decision-making processes. By analyzing this data, AI
systems can identify patterns and make predictions or decisions based on the
information they’ve processed.
Did you get that? It’s sort of like a souped way our very own brain works. When our ancestors were chased by a saber tooth tiger they quickly identified not to be chased by one shortly after they watched their buddy Uug get caught and eaten. The lesson stuck.
 |
| Early AI Trainer |
A fundamental aspect of AI is its ability to learn from data, a process known as machine learning. Instead of being explicitly programmed to perform a task, AI systems use algorithms to find patterns in data and improve their performance over time. For example, an AI system can be trained to recognize images of cats by analyzing thousands of labeled cat images, learning the common features that define a cat.
This is kind of like what I did when I worked in healthcare for largest healthcare company in America as a quality improvement geek. I had to look at a lot data to see how a particular process (let's call it claims denials) was supposed to work and then what was causing a particular problem or issue (not enough of them.) Note: Oddly, I found it was often associated with increasing shareholder value.
Another
important component is natural language processing (NLP), which allows AI to
understand and generate human language. This enables applications like virtual
assistants and chatbots to interpret user requests and provide relevant
responses.
This is no small deal! Smart people think that humans developed language about a hundred thousand years ago yet we are still apparently having trouble with it - just listen to our new (old?) president talk!
 |
| "I really like these conversations about women's rights around the fire, don't you guys ?" |
The big question is, what will this mean for jobs?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the job market, presenting both
opportunities and challenges across various sectors.
Optimists say that it will create more jobs than it destroys
– like every technology advance has in the past.
Applications
of AI
AI is
integrated into various aspects of daily life, often enhancing efficiency and
providing new capabilities. Some common applications include:
·
Virtual Assistants: Tools like Siri or
Alexa use AI to understand voice commands and perform tasks such as setting
reminders or playing music.
·
Recommendation Systems: Platforms like Netflix
or Amazon analyze user preferences using AI to suggest movies or products that
align with individual tastes.
·
Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars
employ AI to process data from sensors and cameras, enabling them to navigate
and respond to dynamic environments.
· Healthcare Diagnostics: AI assists in analyzing medical images and data to help detect diseases and recommend treatment options.
Pessimists are not so sure. Last time a lot of those new jobs ended up being crappier.Job Creation and Augmentation
While some jobs may be displaced, AI is also expected to create new roles
and enhance existing ones. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report
2023 indicates that AI could lead to the emergence of positions like AI and
machine learning specialists, data analysts, and digital transformation
experts. Additionally, AI can augment human capabilities, allowing employees to
focus on higher-value tasks. (Great, higher value tasks like more time on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok while at work!)
Economic and Productivity Implications
AI has the potential to significantly boost productivity and contribute to economic growth. Lower-cost AI solutions are making advanced technologies more accessible to businesses of all sizes, potentially enhancing efficiency across various sectors. However, this increased productivity may also lead to concerns about wage suppression and job displacement in certain industries. (You think?!)
 |
| Just workin' on my PhD and livin' the dream! |
Workforce Adaptation and Skill Development
As AI continues to evolve, there is a growing need for workforce adaptation through reskilling and upskilling. Emphasis on education and training in areas such as data analysis, machine learning, and other tech-related fields can help workers remain competitive. Moreover, developing soft skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence will be crucial, as these are less susceptible to automation. (As are plumbers, electricians, and hair stylists.)
Not to be a negative nelly but they said the same thing when they out sourced all those factory jobs. The government talked big but didn’t put up the dough for all that “developing soft skills” stuff. And we know how that ended last time up - we got a lot of yard care guys, nail salons, Uber drivers, professional burger flippers. (Not that there's anything wrong with those jobs - except the pay, the hours and the benefits.)
Job Displacement and Transformation
AI's ability to automate tasks poses a risk to certain job categories. A study by Carl Benedikt Frey and Michael Osborne estimated that 47% of U.S. jobs are susceptible to computerization. Roles involving routine tasks, such as clerical and secretarial positions, are particularly vulnerable.
Yeah, but it is a LOT harder than you think to make a job transition e.g. a coal miner becoming a web designer or auto worker becoming a personal care attendant - it did create a LOT of pissed off people though!
Conclusion
The impact of AI on jobs is multifaceted, involving both the displacement
of certain roles and the creation of new opportunities. Proactive measures,
including investment in education and training, will be essential to navigate
this transition and harness AI's potential for economic and societal
benefit.
In conclusion, with just a “little” help from AI itself I have explained it so that you can either embrace AI or run from it – neither of which will matter because it’s coming rather you like it or not!
 |
| "I'm here to fix the gov't for you." |
Very sorry, whoever on my staff snuck this in here will be sacked!
Maybe some appropriate music will make up for this faux pas.
Comments
Post a Comment