Talk Time: What is AI?

This session offers an accessible, step-by-step introduction to Artificial Intelligence, in the spirit of the Elements of AI initiative. It is designed for a broad audience and does not require any prior technical knowledge.

The session begins by explaining what Artificial Intelligence is (and what it is not ) addressing common misconceptions and establishing a shared understanding of the topic. It then outlines how AI has evolved over time, highlighting key developments that have led to the widespread use of AI systems today.

Participants are introduced to the main types of AI, with a focus on predictive and generative AI, and learn how these approaches differ in purpose and application. The session also provides a high-level overview of key AI techniques, such as machine learning and deep learning, explained in clear and accessible terms without diving into technical details.

Through concrete, real-world examples, the session explores how AI is currently used across different domains, including health, education, and everyday life. It also examines the opportunities AI can offer, alongside its limitations and risks, such as bias, errors, privacy concerns, and over-reliance on automated systems.

The importance of human oversight, critical thinking, and ethical awareness when interacting with AI systems is also discussed.

The session concludes with an open question-and-answer discussion, encouraging participants to reflect on how AI affects their lives and to engage more confidently and critically with AI technologies.

The session covers the following topics:

• What is AI?
• Types of AI
• Evolution of AI
• How AI works
• AI applications
• What is generative AI?
• Prompting for better results
• Opportunities and risks
• Conclusion

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

• Explain what Artificial Intelligence is and distinguish it from common misconceptions
• Describe the main types of AI
• Understand, at a high level, how AI systems work and learn from data
• Identify everyday applications of AI across different domains
• Interact confidently with generative AI
• Recognize the opportunities and limitations of AI technologies
• Apply critical thinking when interacting with AI systems
• Understand the importance of responsible and ethical use of AI

The session combines an introduction to key concepts and theory with hands-on practice, engaging discussions, and interactive exercises.