Generative AI (GenAI) refers to a category of artificial intelligence models designed to create new content in the form of text, images or sound. These models are evolving so rapidly that it is increasingly difficult to distinguish the content they produce from human productions.
GenAI is based on ‘Large Language Models’ (LLMs). Through statistical probability calculations, it can produce texts in different styles and languages at lightning speed. Simply put, GenAI predicts the next word in a sentence – by using ‘training data’ (a vast collection of existing texts). This way, GenAI can be used to produce complex and well-written content. However, it comes with a risk: generated texts may be factually incorrect. This phenomenon is known as ‘hallucination’.
Besides writing texts, GenAI can also add efficiency to your workflow, act as a practice partner, provide personalised feedback, generate creative ideas or develop critical thinking skills. Meanwhile, there are some ethical concerns regarding the use of this technology. One thing is certain: GenAI will have an impact on our education.
The video series below can help you to gain a better understanding of what GenAI is, how it works, and what important ethical dilemmas come with the use of GenAI.