1. One thing that helps
Looking at the list of jobs that AI could potentially replace, teaching is pretty far down that list—and rightfully so. However, a Harvard experiment has shown increased levels of engagement and learning using a custom-crafted always-available AI tutor in place of in-person learning.
Lecturers Gregory Kestin and Kelly Miller analysed the learning outcomes of 194 students divided into two groups: one received instructor-guided active learning lessons, while the other engaged with an AI tutor. The learning gains of those who engaged with an AI tutor almost doubled to those who did not. Moreover, the students reported higher engagement and motivation when assisted by an AI tutor.
Kestin and Miller customised ChatGPT to ensure that the chatbot did not think for the students but guided them instead. This helps promote an inquiry-based studying method among students. This way, AI can help students gain the introductory skills and knowledge needed for the course while human instructors guide the class in higher-order thinking. I love the idea that AI is helping students and professors focus on the stuff that matters.
2. One to be wary of
Would you like some ads in your car?
That’s right! Ford has filed a patent for an ad delivery system customised using data from inside your car. This data may come from your navigation system; voice commands you give the car or flat-out eavesdropping on your conversations! It then decides whether to serve the ad via audio or visually on the infotainment system, depending on whether you are driving. Ford says that the system can also determine if you are stuck in traffic or in a parking lot to determine what ads to show.
This sounds awful, and it really is. Ford has acknowledged there are issues to overcome with this and has also said that the patent process does not mean something will be created. Often, it is a tactic to limit what competitors can do.
Travelling in cars and planes is one of the last places we are free from internet distractions. I don’t like Wi-Fi-enabled flights, and I don’t want my car to show me ads based on me singing to myself in the car. Grumpy old man rant over.
3. One to amaze
Feeling old? Mobility issues preventing you from getting a relaxing hike up the mountains? MO/GO might be just what you need.
Arc’teryx and Skip have partnered to develop MO/GO, or Mountain Goat, as the world’s first electronic hiking pants. It consists of a motor that is slapped onto hiking pants that assists hikers when they need it. It can provide you with up to 40% more power when hiking, assists the knees when descending and make you feel up to 30 pounds lighter when walking. Equipped with a computer module, MO/GO predicts your movement and adapts to whatever help you need. Three buttons allow you to select more or less assistance from the exoskeleton.
MO/GO is primarily aimed for hikers but it can also find use for people facing mobility issues. These pants can help them move about more easily without catching too much attention. If you’re interested, a pair costs US$5,000. Maybe my car will listen to me whinge about being sore and show me an advert for them?