What might the future resemble in a realm enriched by generative AI technologies? Spanning health and commerce to art and education, the swift evolution of generative AI technologies introduces distinct obstacles concerning how to adeptly navigate the effects of AI systems and guarantee that emerging AI technologies are accountable and dependable. From November 28-30, journalists are welcomed to embark on an exploration of the generative AI future during the MIT Generative AI Week, a collection of events designed to delve into the most recent advanced research while fostering reflective analysis and open dialogue concerning the ramifications and opportunities presented by generative AI.
As MIT President Sally Kornbluth articulated in a communication to the MIT community, “These events embody our belief that MIT has a unique obligation to assist society in grappling with the significant shifts caused by generative AI – to comprehend its potential, mitigate its risks, and leverage its capabilities for positive outcomes.”
The MIT Generative AI Week commences with Shaping the Future on Tuesday, November 28, a day of happenings centered around examining the future prospects of generative AI. Influencers from diverse sectors – ranging from robotics to healthcare, education, transportation, design, and music – will scrutinize the underpinnings, usages, and major ethical issues brought forth by the emergence of generative AI technologies. The day highlights a keynote address from Rodney Brooks, MIT professor emeritus and co-founder of iRobot and Robust AI, who will elaborate on the effects of generative AI in robotics and the future trajectory of both domains. Refik Anadol, an acclaimed media artist and director currently transforming the Sphere in Las Vegas with his AI data sculpture, will discuss the relationship between generative AI and art in his keynote presentation.
On Wednesday and Thursday, November 29 and 30, authorities in education, healthcare, climate science, and management will investigate the distinct opportunities and challenges presented by generative AI specific to each field. Key highlights include:
- Education: On the morning of Wednesday, November 29th, education leaders will convene to discuss how generative AI is revolutionizing the learning experience and teaching methodologies across K-12, higher education, and workforce reskilling. Presenters will contemplate the role generative AI should fulfill—both within and beyond the classroom—in fostering effective, engaging, and equitable learning for individuals of various ages.
- Health and Climate: In the afternoon of Wednesday, November 29, MIT researchers will examine the current landscape of AI research aimed at the health of individuals and the health of the environment. Presentations will showcase advancements in molecular design and sensing applications intended to enhance human health, as well as initiatives to refine climate-change forecasts, boost mobility efficiency, and develop innovative materials. A panel discussion will underscore expected effects of AI in these sectors.
- Creativity: Thursday, November 30 begins with a creativity exposition where faculty experts, researchers, and students will delve into inquiries that allow us to envision the future—imagining our lives in a reality where generative AI-enhanced tools and strategies elevate the human experience.
- Management: The MIT Generative AI Week concludes with an in-depth examination of the influence of AI on management practices on the afternoon of Thursday, November 30th. MIT researchers, policymakers engaged in legislation to ensure fair and healthy AI deployment for consumers, venture capitalists investing in forefront AI technologies, and private equity investors seeking to utilize AI tools for competitive leverage will confront the ramifications of AI in the business realm.
Additional details regarding the MIT Generative AI Week can be located here and the full agenda for each day’s events can be found here.