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What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is study of the nature of intelligence by building computer systems, and the application of these insights in solving real-world problems. AI can be seen both as a science and as engineering, depending on the aim of the work. AI technology is often taught as part of computing, but it has links with many other fields such as psychology, philosophy and linguistics.
Artificial Intelligence Technologies
AI has many sub-fields and advanced technologies, for example. Neural Networks simulate the working of neurons in the brain Natural Language Processing aims to produce computer systems that can understand, translate and communicate in human languages Theorem Provers allow computers to solve mathematical problems and discover new mathematical concepts Genetic Algorithms solve problems by a loose analogy with biological evolution by natural selection Knowledge Based Systems encode human expert knowledge in such a way a computer can reason with it Case-based Reasoning simulates how humans reason from past experience Robotics focuses on the construction of intelligent robots that adapt to their environment Vision focuses on tasks such as face recognition. This is just a sample: new technologies are being developed constantly.
Artificial Intelligence Applications
If you work in AI you may be developing real-world systems such as the following. Fraud detection systems use neural networks to detect stolen credit cards Financiers use neural networks to predict stock market trends and genetic algorithms to optimise their portfolios Genetic algorithms are used in scheduling to find the most efficient way to roster staff or allocate resources Medical Knowledge Based Systems can advise on medical treatment Call Centres and Help Desks often use case-based reasoning to provide instructions on how to deal with common problems Computer Games are using AI increasingly to improve the game’s challenge and playability Forensic analysis of CCTV images using AI vision technology is being developed to recognise criminals. One interesting point to note is that AI is more often than not transparent to its users – most people are not aware that they are using AI in everyday life.
Careers with AI
AI is a graduate discipline. Some AI graduates go on to further study towards careers in research and development and academia. R&D posts usually require additional study at least to MSc level. Academic posts in AI would usually require a PhD. Many AI graduates enter the mainstream IT industry where their combination of general computing knowledge and specialist knowledge is valued. AI researchers typically work in universities though some companies such as BT and Sony have sizable industrial laboratories. There are also a number of small spin-off companies.
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Artificial Intelligence
There are many routes into AI, and this field especially values people with a variety of backgrounds. Even if you have chosen an unrelated career it may be possible to move into AI. In fact many successful AI researchers have first degrees in subjects such as psychology, philosophy, mathematics and science as well as computing. The usual route into AI is to take a degree at either honours or masters level. Many computing degrees also contain AI modules, and AI can sometimes be found as part of degrees in related fields such as psychology. If you have taken a degree already it is possible to undertake a post-graduate course (full or part time) to enter AI, or to specialise further. Determination can take you far and it may be possible to move sideways with an employer that uses AI if you show interest and keep up with the ever-changing technology.
Careers in IT
Artificial Intelligence
More information may be obtained from: BCS 1st Floor, Block D, North Star House, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire SN2 1FA, UK Tel: 01793 417417 www.bcs.org e-skills UK: www.e-skills.com BCS SGAI: www.bcs-sgai.org AISB: www.aisb.org.uk Essential reading in this series: CWG01 Entry Points CWG02 Typical Career Paths – Business/Technical CWG02 Typical Career Paths – Creative/Multimedia Other leaflets in this series include: CWG10 Support Teams CWG13 Data Modelling CWG17 Games Development
Careers in IT
Artificial Intelligence
Version CWG16.1/2006 Disclaimer Although every care has been taken by the Working Party of the British Computer Society’s Schools’ Expert Panel in the preparation of this publication, no warranty is given by the Working Party or the British Computer Society as Publisher as to the accuracy or the completeness of the information contained within it and neither the Working Party nor the British Computer Society shall be responsible or liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising by virtue of such information or any instructions or advice contained within this publication or by any of the aforementioned.
BCS Careers Leaflet No: CWG16