Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models · 40 minutes
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand what Artificial Intelligence is.
- Understand what a Large Language Model (LLM) is.
- Understand why AI has become one of the most important technologies of this century.
- Recognise both the capabilities and limitations of AI.
- Begin thinking about AI as a professional tool rather than a magical solution.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that traditionally require human intelligence. These tasks include understanding language, recognising images, solving problems, writing software, analysing information, generating creative content, and assisting with decision-making.
Although the concept of Artificial Intelligence has existed since the 1950s, recent advances in computing power, cloud infrastructure, and machine learning have transformed AI from an academic discipline into one of the fastest-growing technologies in history.
Today, AI is no longer limited to research laboratories. It is used daily by businesses, governments, universities, engineers, accountants, designers, marketers, healthcare professionals, software developers, and millions of individuals around the world.
AI is rapidly becoming a new digital infrastructure, much like the internet transformed business during the late 1990s.
A Brief History of AI and Large Language Models
The development of AI has taken place over several decades. While the public became aware of AI only recently, the foundations were laid many years ago.
The idea of creating machines capable of intelligent behaviour emerged. Researchers began asking whether computers could imitate aspects of human reasoning.
The pace of innovation continues to accelerate, with new models, capabilities, and applications appearing almost monthly.