We’re sure you’ve heard the term "AI" a lot, but what does this mean for you?
Research from the Good Things Foundation shows that over a third of UK adults feel less confident going online since the rise of AI.
Website tests with our residents have supported these findings, so we want to help you learn more about it.
What is AI?
AI stands for artificial intelligence. This means tasks are processed by computer systems instead of by humans.
What is AI being used for?
People are using AI to help with digital tasks that normally they would have to do themselves. This includes things like:
- writing emails and documents
- creating images and audio
- searching and finding information on the internet
- help with using software like spreadsheets or social media apps.
If you are using it for work, you will need to check with your employer on what usage is allowed.
How do I use AI?
The Good Things Foundation has created a free, open access AI Gateway.
This contains a series of short, easy-to-understand videos that introduce you to AI. They cover topics like:
- what is artificial intelligence?
- AI: myths vs. reality
- create, discover, learn with Generative AI
- using AI.
They also offer free training for other digital skills via Learn My Way.
Other resources
Our Help getting online page links to resources to help you with learning, access and more.
Why use AI?
You may already be using AI without realising it.
For example, popular search engines now preface results with an AI overview. This can give a clear summary of the most likely response to your search. This can save you time, although remember AI can make mistakes too.
AI can also help:
- reduce the time taken to do tasks
- answer questions and solve problems in a conversational way
- present content so it is more understandable.
However, you still need to use AI with care.
Using AI responsibly
When you ask an AI something, you should consider the following:
- Whatever you have asked is not private or secure. This means you should never input personal data, or data which is not yours. This also applies to anything the AI tells you or creates for you.
- AI is also only as accurate and unbiased as the data it is given. Due to the nature of the internet, AI draws its knowledge from many sources. This means you cannot be certain it is accurate, fair or factual.
- You should always make your own checks on any information AI gives you. This includes for accuracy, inappropriate content or any other legal and moral considerations.
The environment and sustainability
Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, but it comes with an environmental and ethical cost. Unlike traditional web searches, AI-powered tools require far more computing power, for example a single AI request can use around ten times more energy than a standard search. When you factor in the electricity and water needed to cool the data centres that host AI, the carbon impact grows even higher. To reduce your footprint, consider whether you really need an AI-generated response or if a quick web search will do.
You can also remove AI results entirely by adding “-AI” to your search query.
Give AI a try!
We know new technology can be intimidating, but once you get the hang of it, you may wonder how you got by without it.
As well as the resources we have listed, remember you can also ask friends and family for advice too. There are also many more online tutorials and videos available, so why not give AI a try!