AI in Daily Life: Syracuse University Insights
Source: news.syr.edu
The Transformative Potential of AI
Adam Peruta, a faculty member at the Newhouse School, provides advice on leveraging Artificial Intelligence in everyday activities. He also highlights what distinguishes the University as a leading institution in AI education. Peruta's work delves into AI, examining the effects of AI-generated content on the media industry and how professionals must adjust to technological advancements.
According to Peruta, who serves as an associate professor and program director at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, AI's influence could surpass that of the internet, social media, and smartphones. He believes that AI is currently underestimated. Peruta's research and teaching focus on AI-related subjects, including the impact of AI-generated content on the media landscape and the adaptations necessary for media and communications professionals.
Peruta joined the “‘Cuse Conversations” podcast to discuss AI, offer practical usage tips, and explain the University's leadership role in AI education. Episode 181 of the podcast features Peruta, and a transcript is available in PDF format.
Understanding Generative and Agentic AI
While the term 'AI' dates back to the 1950s, the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 sparked widespread interest in generative AI. This form of AI can produce original content, although its underlying transformer architecture was developed by Google in 2017.
AI's presence in media and communications is well-established. Recommendation algorithms used by Netflix and Amazon, the magic wand tool in Photoshop, and targeted online advertisements all rely on AI. The widespread use of 'AI' since ChatGPT's release has led to some ambiguity. Generative AI is a subset of the broader AI field.
Agentic AI represents a further development, enabling AI systems to function independently. Unlike current systems where users provide specific prompts for each output, agentic AI receives a goal and determines the steps to achieve it autonomously. Although promising, agentic AI is still in its early stages.
University Resources and Training
The University is investing in resources to promote AI learning and practical application. Syracuse recently announced campus-wide access to Anthropic’s Claude for Education, a state-of-the-art AI platform. Information Technology Services offers an AI newsletter with helpful tips, and AI tools are being integrated for faculty use in course development and delivery.
The Newhouse School offers two courses specifically focused on AI, along with internal workshops and training for faculty and staff. The Office of Research and Creative Activity hosts an emerging media day where faculty members can demonstrate how they have incorporated AI into their teaching.
Encouragement to Explore AI
Adam Peruta encourages everyone in the University community to explore Artificial Intelligence and discover ways to integrate it into their daily routines.