AI - What’s it all about?

Elmbridge u3a has now established an Artificial Intelligence Group with a slightly different purpose from most of our groups.

The main objective is to build awareness of AI, encourage gentle experimentation and to support the use of AI across Elmbridge u3a — helping our existing groups and activity leaders that wish to benefit from this rapidly developing technology.

AI, in simple terms, refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. These include understanding language, summarising information, generating ideas and assisting with planning and organisation. It will also help with improving photographs, researching topics, and generating creative ideas Many modern AI tools are easy to use and simply involve typing a question or request.

The potential benefits for Elmbridge u3a groups are considerable. AI can help group leaders create and prepare talks, generate discussion topics, organise events, research subjects, and produce promotional material more quickly and easily. It can also help members explore interests such as photography, creative writing, family history, travel planning and lifelong learning.

Many modern AI tools are easy to use and simply involve typing a request. So, if you want to try AI for yourself - if you haven’t already - search for ChatGPT using your web browser then simply ask it a question. Try something like; What is the best way to travel from London to York? But avoid giving personal information to the chatbot.

Artificial Intelligence is one of the most significant technological developments of recent years and is already shaping many aspects of everyday life. It offers practical tools that can make tasks easier and enhance the experiences we offer our members. By embracing it in a practical and supportive way, Elmbridge u3a can continue to innovate and enhance what we offer.

As we proceed, we will share our outputs with you so that you can follow our progress and hopefully be AI inspired by developments we make.

Nigel Cudby