Understanding AI

Explore Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in this free virtual conference. There is no requirement for any previous knowledge about AI nor do you need to have a technical background. The talks are pitched at a level ideal for anyone interested in learning what AI is, what it can do, and how it can shape our world for good.

Agenda:

14.00-14.30 - How I learned to stop worrying and love A.I. - Sean Tracey

Almost every generation in history has been worried about the challenges that new technology presents to society. With great technological advancement often comes great societal upheaval, but when we look back across the history of people worrying about their place in an ever-more technologically driven society, we see those concerns are often unfounded, or at least misplaced.
In this talk, we will look at the history of the societal disruptions technology has caused, and why we shouldn’t worry about the possibilities that such upheaval creates.

14.30-15.00 - Ceci n’est pas un canard - Machine Learning and Generative Adversarial Networks - Matt Hamilton

In this talk Matt will guide you through a specific type of A.I. He will introduce the concept of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and how they can be used for both fun and serious tasks. You will learn what a GAN is, and how they work.

15.00-15.10 - Break

15.10-15.40 - Digital Discrimination: Cognitive Bias in Machine Learning - Maureen McElaney

With increasing regularity we see stories in the news about machine learning algorithms causing real-world harm. People’s lives and livelihood are affected by the decisions made by machines. Learn about how bias can take root in machine learning algorithms and ways to overcome it. From the power of open source, to tools built to detect and remove bias in machine learning models, there is a vibrant ecosystem of contributors who are working to build a digital future that is inclusive and fair. Now you can become part of the solution.

15.40-15.55 - Using A.I. to help humanitarian causes - Liam Hampton & Craig Forrest

Losing contact with a loved one in the aftermath of a natural disaster isn’t much of a worry for a lot of people, but in some parts of the world it is. Call for Code 2019 runners up Project Reunite used AI to help eliviate some of the pain and help speed up aid efforts when needed the most. By using AI algorithms to classify and identify images of lost loved ones in the aftermath of a natural disaster, Project Reunite were able to demonstrate how this can become a vital tool used in future efforts.

15.55-16.15 - Ask me anything - a panel discussion with the speakers

Pose a question to the panel or just sit back and listen as they discuss burning topics around A.I. in our world.