Artificial intelligence applications have recently become widespread in people's lives, benefiting vast sectors that continue to grow daily. Certain fields, such as media, medicine, military, and political sectors, have become closely linked with artificial intelligence applications. However, many people, especially in our Arab region, remain distant from genuine knowledge of artificial intelligence and its applications, despite being unconsciously affected by it.
To shed more light and clarify much information about the reality of artificial intelligence and its applications, "Al-Mujtama" conducted this interview with Amin Ahmed Mohammed Hassan, a Sudanese researcher and media specialist, who holds a master’s degree in artificial intelligence from Omdurman Islamic University.
The term artificial intelligence has gained widespread attention in recent years. To begin with, how can it be defined so that people understand its essence?
Artificial intelligence is defined as a collection of ideas, methods, and techniques used by computer systems to perform functions carried out by the human mind, such as vision, natural sound, decision-making, and analysis. Some scholars have described artificial intelligence as smart tools and modern technologies used by computers. There are two types of artificial intelligence: general artificial intelligence and narrow artificial intelligence. General AI refers to future AI strategies, while the tools and models we see today belong to narrow AI.
What are the most important artificial intelligence techniques?
Key techniques in AI include large language models, generative neural networks, and deep learning. These algorithms have brought significant advancements in AI over recent years, with 2020 marking a pivotal starting point for artificial intelligence.
Among these are large language models like "ChatGPT" and "Gemini," which have become highly prominent. Other models focus on generating images, producing natural human voices, handling human emotions, improving search engines, and enabling autonomous vehicles. These tools and models are part of what is called the major AI revolution. The continuous development of AI tools and models is a hallmark of this era.
Can artificial intelligence be utilized in education and healthcare?
AI technologies have significantly advanced healthcare and the medical sector. They can now perform precise medical diagnoses, detailed imaging, and laboratory analyses to find critical medical solutions.
In education, AI has played a substantial role in enhancing learning processes and training students in academic achievement using AI tools. Large chat models are among the most widely used tools for scientific research and academic papers. AI employs deep learning techniques to analyze data and generative neural networks to produce images. Large language models contribute to summarizing academic papers and aiding scientific research. It is essential to remember that scientific research relies on AI assistance, not as a complete replacement for research itself.
How can AI models produce media content, and how can the issue of media bias be addressed?
Artificial intelligence is a fundamental part of the media process. The future of media heavily relies on AI. Historically, media development has been tied to advancements in smart technology for producing images and sound.
Today, media content production is largely dependent on AI. Models that produce media content have become highly advanced, accessible, and diverse. Tools exist for generating natural voices, photographic images, videos, and converting speech into text, text into images, images into text, and text into videos and voices.
This integration has significantly enhanced journalistic coverage, making media processes fully AI-dependent. However, media organizations must develop clear strategies for AI use. Effective AI strategies in media institutions are crucial for successful implementation.
Media bias remains a significant challenge, often stemming from the input of biased data. Deep learning techniques can help address this issue. Additionally, challenges like deepfake phenomena in generative neural networks require media institutions to adopt transparency, integrity, and credibility. Institutions should label AI-generated materials and address legal gaps to protect audiences from AI-related risks. New journalistic specialties, such as data journalism engineering and AI model direction, have emerged due to the rise of AI.
How can AI make life easier?
AI can simplify life across various domains. We are now discussing smart cities and how people can access services through smart applications, making life easier in smart homes within these cities. The world is moving towards a new model of the Internet of Things.
How can educators and parents use AI to guide future generations?
By providing advanced training for the next generations and equipping them with smart technologies and tools, AI can help instill virtuous values. Specialized models can support educational processes for children and students, develop curricula, and reinforce ethical values.
Educators can use AI to improve and monitor behaviors, guiding young people and alerting parents to potential risks. AI can also help combat issues like drug abuse among youth or reckless driving that causes traffic accidents. AI tools can even aid in school surveillance and monitoring.
How can AI be used safely and optimally?
The wide-ranging applications and rapid advancements in AI tools and models are significant. However, ensuring safe use requires laws, administrative steps, and strategies to protect users from potential risks associated with AI misuse. Consequently, the world is heading towards new legislation and training institutions to establish ethical AI usage as a decisive element.
How can AI technology affect religious beliefs?
In my view, artificial intelligence is a scientific revolution that supports human development. We look at AI through the lens of its vast databases used to produce models that simulate human cognition. Feeding these algorithms with appropriate data ensures positive outcomes.
This aligns with Islam's emphasis on knowledge. In the Quran, Allah says: “And He taught Adam the names—all of them.” (Al-Baqarah: 31) This verse reflects the Islamic foundation of learning bestowed upon humans to worship Allah and surpass other creatures. With the vast data resources available in the Quran, we can find many solutions to human problems by leveraging this divine database.
What are the most important and well-known AI applications?
Currently, we are discussing major models like large chat models, including "GPT" and "Gemini" by Google. Smart AI tools are continuously produced, making it impossible to discuss any digital tool without AI features being added to it. AI tools are diverse and integrated into all digital applications.
How can the Arab region benefit from AI in economic growth?
AI is one of the most critical tools for digital and economic growth in the Arab region. Developing the digital economy is vital for our region. AI strategies play a key role in advancing the digital economy and increasing revenue.
The region, with its large population interested in technological advancement, needs to optimize its approach to digital economic growth by creating job opportunities and developing the capabilities of Arab youth. Employing Arab talents in building digital institutions parallel to those in the Western world is essential. The Arab region can achieve this as it represents a significant and influential digital market globally.
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