In this podcast, Mike Wooldridge, Professor of computer science at the University of Oxford, gives a sneak peek into his upcoming Christmas Lecture on artificial intelligence. He discusses the use of props to engage young audiences and demystify AI. He also talks about the importance of preparing students for unpredictable future careers and the potential impact of AI in the classroom, specifically in enhancing virtual reality experiences. The lecture aims to demonstrate the reality of AI, its prevalence, and its future implications.
The Royal Institution's Christmas Lectures will focus on artificial intelligence, using exciting demonstrations and props to engage young audiences and demystify the technology.
Preparing the current generation of young people for the opportunities and risks of AI is crucial, as they are the first AI natives and will shape its future.
Deep dives
The Rise of AI in the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, there has been significant progress in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). This progress can be attributed to the availability of abundant data and cheap compute power. The age of big data has provided ample training data for AI algorithms, while the increasing availability and affordability of computer power have made it possible to build and configure sophisticated neural networks. This rapid advancement in AI technology has brought it into the public spotlight and generated considerable excitement.
The Unexpected Success of Chat GPT
One of the unexpected developments in AI has been the success of programs like chat GPT. Chat GPT, despite initial doubts, demonstrated exceptional performance and attracted millions of users within a short period. This viral success has fueled the AI frenzy in recent times. With chat GPT, AI programs now have the potential to pass the Turing test and mimic human-like intelligence in a way that was previously thought implausible. This sudden breakthrough has created immense excitement and interest in the possibilities and capabilities of AI.
The Use of Props and Demonstrations in the Christmas Lectures
The Royal Institution's famous Christmas Lectures, with a legacy spanning almost 200 years, have inspired young science enthusiasts across various subjects. This year, the lectures will focus on artificial intelligence, and Professor Mike Wildridge will be delivering them. To engage the young audience, the lectures will feature exciting demonstrations and props, including explosions and the presence of a dog. The aim is to showcase the inner workings of AI, demystify the technology, and highlight its applications in various fields such as gaming and virtual reality.
Preparing the Next Generation as AI Natives
The current generation of 11 to 17-year-olds are growing up with AI as a pervasive part of their lives. They are the first AI natives and will encounter the technology in ways we can't imagine. As such, it is crucial to prepare them for the possibilities and risks associated with AI. The Christmas Lectures aim to educate and excite children about AI, helping them understand the technology, its potential, and its limitations. This generation will likely shape the future of AI, so it is important to foster their curiosity and critical thinking skills.
The Royal Institution has been putting on the science spectacles for children known as the Christmas Lectures almost every year since 1825. For 200 years, the shows have inspired young science lovers in subjects sweeping from chemistry and astronomy through to psychology and climate change. This year, they turn to artificial intelligence. Delivering the 2023 Christmas Lecture is Mike Wooldridge, professor of computer science at the University of Oxford. In this episode, Mike gives us a sneak peak at his take on the lecture’s iconic use of props – plus an insight into how he thinks AI is going to change the world for children.