Panhandle Library Access Network Session 4: Algorithms and Generative AI: Pitfalls and Possibilities for Students

Presenter:

Tracee Stanford

Young people spend a lot of time on social media, but do they know why certain content appears on their feeds? Algorithms are powerful but often invisible forces shaping our online experiences — but whose interests are they designed to promote? This presentation will help you dive into the world of algorithms and generative artificial intelligence so you can teach students and public library patrons to consider the civic and social impact of these technologies. You’ll gain an understanding of how search and social media algorithms work; explore the opportunities and pitfalls of large language model chatbots, such as ChatGPT; and learn about the evolution of AI image generators, such as DALL-E. We’ll also take a look at where these technologies are heading, including the rapid development of AI video, and discuss their implications for civic discourse, research and library best practices.