QUESTION: Are there any programs or presentations done in this area that explain some basics about AI? What it is, how it is used and possible pitfalls (scams)? I think it might be useful, especially to seniors with somewhat limited tech skills that need the better understanding.
ANSWER: I did not find a lot of options at this time, but Kilgore College is hosting a free seminar about AI at 8:30 a.m.-noon Sept. 20 at Dodson Auditorium, 810 Nolen St. in Kilgore.
The seminar will feature keynote speaker Todd McLees. McLees is described as a “pioneer in human-AI partnerships” who has “collaborated with more than 100 organizations globally, spanning sectors from higher education to banking.”
His presentation will address AI’s effect on “human potential, economic agility and higher education.”
Longview’s library works really hard to provide all sorts of meaningful programming for people of all ages, including a variety of different kinds of computer courses. The library also offers an annul cyber security class in conjunction with Greater Longview United Way. (Read more about the various classes offered here at longviewtexas.gov/3021/Computer-Classes .)
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The library does not at this time, however, offer AI classes, but when I asked Library Director Jennifer Eldridge, she noted that library staff in May underwent training about the potential effect of AI on libraries. They used this free site that you can access, too. It looked like it had some good resources about AI: tinyurl.com/bdbrntjc .
The library’s website also has a page dedicated to databases at longviewtexas.gov/2884/Databases-A-to-Z . When I went to that page I found the Gale High School database. You need your library card to access it, and then you can search for AI or artificial intelligence. I found some good information there as well.
Finally, Eldridge informed me about an upcoming television event that might be useful. The ABC special, “AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special,” will air at 7 p.m. Sept. 12. It will be available on Hulu the next day.
It’s a one-hour special that ABC said will include a discussion with Sam Altman, CEO of Open AI, who “will explain how AI works in layman’s terms” and discuss “the immense personal responsibility that must be borne by the executives of AI companies.”
Microsoft co-founder and chair of the Gates Foundation Bill Gates and Tristan Harris and Aza Raskin, co-founders of Center for Humane Technology and others, are among others who will be part of the television special.
