Demystifying AI

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integrated into everyday life, it’s important for parents to understand how their children might use, or encounter, it. 

From personalised learning tools in the classroom to AI-driven apps and games, kids are interacting more than ever with AI products and services.

Between smart devices that help with homework to AI-driven games that adapt and individual learning styles, children are encountering AI products and services in their daily routines. 

While these innovations offer exciting opportunities for engagement and education, they also raise important questions about privacy, screen time, and the nature of human interaction. 

If that all sounds overwhelming, don't worry - this article covers all the basics so you understand exactly what's what when it comes to your children.

The term AI encompasses a broad range of technologies and techniques designed to enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. 

This includes: 

• machine learning, where systems learn from data to improve their performance; 
• natural language processing, which allows machines to understand and 
• generate human language; computer vision, enabling the interpretation of visual information. 

AI also covers robotics, autonomous systems, and expert systems that mimic human decision-making.

Machine learning (ML) is a branch of AI that enables computers to learn from data and improve over time. 

It powers personalised recommendations on platforms like Netflix and YouTube, influencing children’s viewing habits.

Deep learning is a specialised subset of machine learning that uses neural networks to analyse and process large amounts of data. 

It powers advanced technologies like voice assistants and facial recognition. 

Deep learning can influence children’s interactions with technology, shaping their experiences on platforms like social media and gaming.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a branch of artificial intelligence that enables computers to understand, interpret, and respond to human language. 

What’s useful to know is that NLP powers everyday technologies, from voice-activated assistants like Siri and Alexa to chatbots in educational apps.

 These tools can help with homework and provide instant answers to questions.

We hope that you enjoyed learning a little bit about the world of AI. We’ll be publishing further parent-friendly explainers in the near future. 

Remember - you don’t need to be a computer expert to keep your children safe around new and emerging technologies. 

Having a little more understanding of the tech will put you in a better position to guide their use of it.

If you would like to hear more on any of the following topics, you can check out our Parent Zone Library or speak to us directly about the various programmes we offer by contacting info@parentzone.org.uk