AI has become a popular yet polarising topic. While some marvel at the endless possibilities it presents, others are apprehensive and even fearful of this emerging technology. Much of this fear stems from misinformation. This short article briefly outlines what artificial intelligence is and dispels some common myths surrounding this controversial topic.
Definition
Simply put, artificial intelligence is the mimicking of human intellect by computer systems. As such, it allows computer systems to carry out tasks that would usually be done by humans. It may sound complicated, but it is actually more common than you might think. If you’ve used your phone’s autocorrect function or any sort of navigation system, then you’ve used AI!
More exciting examples include self-driving cars and human-like robots, like Hanson Robotics’ Sophia robot that has been doing the rounds on social media. Now, before you start panicking over a robot takeover, read on to find out why this isn’t something you should be worried about, at least for now.
The ‘Robot Takeover’ Myth
Despite what the media and movies like I, Robot may lead you to believe, we are a long way away from robot domination. It will take many further advances before robots achieve the level of consciousness and free will needed to take over the world, and even if we do eventually get to a stage where this is possible, you can rest assured that lawmakers all over the world will ensure that a full-scale takeover does not happen.
The ‘Humans Will Become Obsolete’ Myth
Another unfounded fear of this increasingly popular technology is that it will completely remove the need for human workers. Though this is a very real fear for some, a recent paper, published by MIT Task Force, predicts that AI will, in fact, lead us on a different course. The paper, titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work,” argues that AI will continue to spark growth within existing industries and may even lead to the development of new ones, ultimately leading to job creation.
With the above in mind, it should come as no surprise that completing an artificial intelligence course will significantly increase your job prospects. But why stop at a simple course? A Belgium Campus iTversity qualification will set you up for success in any field. Our IT qualifications are specifically designed to meet the changing needs of the industry.
In addition to artificial intelligence, our three-year Bachelor of Information Technology course covers an extensive range of topics, from mobile and wireless networks to intelligent systems. We also offer study-abroad opportunities, including an international minor programme, Global Acting in IT. During this programme, our students travel to a number of countries to complete various IT modules, including an AI module in Belgium.
Want more information? Send us an email at info@belgiumcampus.ac.za or give us a call on 010 593 5368. Our career advisors are always on hand and would be more than happy to assist.
