New Educational Technologies that Will Have a Significant Impact on Education

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September 28, 2023

Technology is a catalyst for change in the constantly evolving world of education, but people also make this shift truly remarkable. Educational technologies are poised to significantly impact how we learn, teach, and connect. As we travel the exciting future of education, here you can look at the emerging education technologies in detail that are shaping the future of students worldwide.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is like having a personalized virtual instructor who is always on hand to respond to your questions and offer feedback. It easily accommodates your particular learning style. Who would have thought that something like this would be possible one day? This is now a reality thanks to AI in education.

Websites like Coursera and Khan Academy use AI algorithms to analyze your progress and recommend tailored learning pathways. That said, teachers and students both benefit from these algorithms. Teachers can modify teaching strategies, better understand each student, and provide on-demand support using AI insights.

While artificial intelligence has been significantly helpful in getting many difficult tasks done, it is still something that cannot be used for writing essays. This is because colleges strictly advise against submitting AI-generated texts. Professors can sometimes even deduct marks for the same reason. This is where you can hire academized expert writers online who will write your essay for you. It will guarantee you receive quality and human-written essays that will help you achieve your academic goals.

Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR)

AR and VR allow students to explore historical civilizations and, surprisingly, even dissect a frog without a scalpel. With the aid of these tools, students can now fully immerse themselves in their studies. However, it’s not just about the immersive experience, it’s also about the resulting human connections. Teachers can take their students on virtual field trips or bring history lessons to life with AR and VR.

Among many benefits of Artificial Intelligence, effective learning has been one of the most prominent ones. It has revolutionized the education sector. It not only helps students but educators too. Check out AI for education to see what other advantages this technology entails and how it influences education worldwide.

Online Collaboration Tools for Global Learning Communities

Education is no longer just for the classroom. Online collaboration tools have enabled the formation of global learning communities, linking students and teachers worldwide. Real-time discussions, collaborative projects, and peer-to-peer learning are all possible with platforms like Zoom and Google Workspace.

Gamification for Engaging Learning Experiences

Learning is more enjoyable when it is done through a game. Gamification has revolutionized education by transforming complicated concepts into engaging challenges. Language learning and test preparation are made more fun with apps, including but not limited to Duolingo and Quizlet. Apart from this, it instills motivation in students to help them learn effectively.

Blockchain

With the help of blockchain technology, the conventional transcript is getting a digital makeover. It eliminates the possibility of credential fraud by enabling students to retain and exchange their academic records securely.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

Thanks to IoT, the classroom of the future is smart. It converts static areas into interactive learning spaces. Lessons become more dynamic and engaging with the use of smart boards and sensors. All of this is not only interesting for students but teachers as well.

3D Printing

Hands-on learning has transformed, all thanks to 3D printing, which can produce complex models of molecules and magnificent buildings. Students can create concrete versions of their innovative concepts. Furthermore, it brings out students’ creative side, enhancing their cognitive abilities.

The Bottom Line

There is no doubt that technology has changed the world in and out. It is used significantly in all sectors, especially education, where it helps students learn effectively. From artificial intelligence to blockchain technology to 3D printing, many new education technologies have emerged over the years.

Although technology is a powerful tool, let us not lose sight of how it is humans who have enriched our living experiences by utilizing these technologies. What the future holds for technology in education is uncertain, but it would not be wrong to say that it is going to be even brighter than what it is today.

OpenAI Enhances ChatGPT with Web Browsing Capability

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Sahil Pawar

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September 28, 2023

In a recent announcement, OpenAI unveiled a significant update to its ChatGPT, allowing the AI model to once again scour the web for real-time information from “current and authoritative” sources.

ChatGPT can now browse the internet to provide you with current and authoritative information, complete with direct links to sources. It is no longer limited to data before September 2021. pic.twitter.com/pyj8a9HWkB
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) September 27, 2023

This feature, aptly named “Browse with Bing,” is initially accessible to users with Plus and Enterprise subscriptions but is poised for a broader rollout to all users in the near future.

OpenAI‘s ChatGPT joins the ranks of Microsoft’s Bing Chat on Windows, the Edge browser, and third-party browser plugins, as well as Google’s Bard in Chrome and other browsers, in offering live web information retrieval. These platforms also provide clickable links when presenting search results, a feature now incorporated into ChatGPT’s Browse with Bing functionality.

While OpenAI offers instructions for the browser version, the same guidance is notably absent for the iOS app. Nonetheless, with a subscription in hand, users can access the feature through a series of steps: navigate to the three dots menu > Settings > New Features > Browse with Bing.

Subsequently, initiate a new chat, tap GPT-4, and select “Browse with Bing.” Following these steps enables users to retrieve information from contemporary websites.

Furthermore, when ChatGPT responds to a query, users can click on the linked site to cross-reference the answers provided. This enhancement not only empowers users to verify the accuracy of the information but also ensures proper attribution—a crucial aspect, especially in a context where AI-generated content has the potential to be misleading.

OpenAI had previously introduced web browsing capabilities within its ChatGPT iOS app in late June, only to retract it shortly afterward.

Kneron Secures $49 Million in Series B Funding to Compete with Nvidia

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Sahil Pawar

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September 28, 2023

Kneron, a U.S.-based semiconductor startup, announced on Tuesday that it has secured an additional $49 million in a series B funding round to advance the commercialization of its artificial intelligence chips, aiming to compete with Nvidia.

This fresh funding round brings Kneron’s total funding to $97 million, with notable investors including Taiwan’s Foxconn, known for assembling Apple’s iPhones, and Alltek, a communications tech firm.

Kneron is capitalizing on the growing investor interest in AI and chip technology, fueled by Nvidia’s remarkable 180% growth and the recent IPO of semiconductor designer Arm in the US

In contrast to Nvidia’s GPUs that power data centers, Kneron focuses on designing chips for consumer electronics and vehicles, enabling AI at the edge rather than relying on cloud services for AI processing, which enhances security and speed.

Kneron’s chips, known as neural processing units (NPUs), include the latest product, the KL730, designed for autonomous driving support. Albert Liu, CEO of Kneron, noted that GPUs are costly to operate, potentially driving demand for their more cost-effective NPUs.

Kneron’s primary focus, with this funding, is to expand efforts in making autonomous driving a reality through AI integration. Kneron faces competition from giants like Qualcomm and MediaTek, who are also venturing into on-device AI with their semiconductor offerings, along with various AI semiconductor startups.

One notable investor, Foxconn, aims to diversify beyond electronics assembly, venturing into areas like electric cars and semiconductors. Their collaboration with Kneron aims to accelerate the deployment of advanced AI, developing ultra-lightweight AI chips for cloud-based AI applications like ChatGPT.

Foxconn’s semiconductor endeavors have encountered challenges, including a recent exit from a joint venture with Vedanta, highlighting the complexities of the microchip market.

US Army Grants Palantir $250 Million Contract for AI and Machine Learning Research

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Sahil Pawar

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September 28, 2023

The US Army has granted Palantir Technologies a substantial contract, valued at up to $250 million, to delve into artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) research and experimentation.

This agreement, disclosed by the Department of Defense on September 26, is slated to continue until 2026. The specifics regarding the work locations and funding allocation will be determined on a per-order basis.

The defense sector’s interest in AI and ML has seen remarkable growth, with military officials recognizing their potential in various battlefield applications. This surge in interest aligns with industry enthusiasm for these technologies.

As of 2021, the Defense Department was managing over 685 AI-related projects, according to the Government Accountability Office. Notably, at least 232 of these projects fell under the Army’s jurisdiction.

Palantir previously engaged in a legal battle with the Army over procurement procedures in 2016, which it won. Subsequently, the company has secured numerous multimillion-dollar contracts.

In October 2022, the Army awarded Palantir a five-year predictive maintenance contract, valued at just over $85 million. The military aims to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce unit downtime, and rely on machine-powered forecasts.

Additionally, Palantir is playing a role in implementing the Army’s Global Force Information Management system. This system consolidates more than a dozen aging applications and offers leaders an automated and comprehensive view of manpower, equipment, training, and troop readiness.

Digital India Bill Expected to Bring Algorithmic Accountability and Opt-Out Rights

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Sahil Pawar

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September 28, 2023

In an effort to address growing concerns of discrimination and bias in artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, the Indian government is preparing to introduce provisions in the upcoming Digital India Bill. These provisions aim to enhance algorithmic accountability and grant citizens the right to opt out of decisions made by algorithms. However, opting out may come with conditions, potentially requiring citizens to forfeit certain digital services that rely on algorithmic decisions.

The move comes as AI-based algorithms face scrutiny for their potential biases and discriminatory outcomes. The government’s intention to introduce algorithmic accountability reflects the widespread use of artificial intelligence in various aspects of daily life, including governance.

Under the proposed legislation, the Digital India Bill will replace the two-decades-old Information Technology Act and establish comprehensive oversight mechanisms for the digital landscape. The opt-out mechanism, as outlined in the bill, will allow citizens to decline algorithmic decisions. However, there may be exceptions when the decision is legally required or authorized or if permitted under the law.

The bill is also expected to mandate that organizations provide explanations for algorithmic decisions, including the user characteristics and processes involved. In cases where citizens cannot opt-out, they may have the option to request a human review and reconsideration of the decision. This could have a significant impact on content moderation by social media platforms, which heavily rely on AI automation.

The Digital India Bill is currently undergoing pre-consultations in various cities, with discussions centered on principles such as open internet, online safety, trust, accountability, adjudicatory mechanisms, and new technologies. The government is considering changes, including the potential removal of the safe harbor provision for internet intermediaries, to address the evolving digital landscape effectively.

Genpact CEO Highlights Limitations of Foundational AI Models for Enterprise Use

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Sahil Pawar

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September 28, 2023

While Genpact, a Business Process Management (BPM) firm, has been engaged with OpenAI’s large language model, GPT, CEO NV Tyagarajan emphasized the importance of careful application due to the potential for incorrect responses that users may struggle to decipher. He noted that further fine-tuning is required to make these language models suitable for enterprise use cases, particularly when addressing specific and nuanced customer inquiries, such as order tracking.

Tyagarajan emphasized that he views artificial intelligence as a tool for augmented intelligence, with humans actively involved in the decision-making process rather than a complete replacement for human roles. This approach reflects Genpact’s commitment to harnessing AI to enhance human capabilities and drive innovation in the BPM industry.

Genpact is actively pursuing 100 generative artificial intelligence (AI) proof of concepts (PoC) across 10-12 distinct use cases, according to Tyagarajan. This initiative follows Genpact’s recent announcement that it will invest approximately $600 million over the next three years to bolster its AI capabilities, as stated during its Q2 2023 earnings conference.

Tyagarajan explained that these 10-12 specific use cases are being designed with the intention of applying them across multiple clients, promoting efficiency and consistency in their AI solutions.

To support its $600 million investment, Genpact will channel resources into its own innovation and research and development (R&D) teams, client co-innovation initiatives, data, technology, and AI skills training, and the creation of specialized expert groups. The firm also intends to explore acquisitions in the fields of data analytics and intellectual property (IP) and frameworks related to data models.

Microsoft Explores Nuclear Energy to Power AI Data Centres

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Sahil Pawar

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September 27, 2023

In response to the significant energy demands of running AI models like ChatGPT, Microsoft is exploring the use of nuclear energy to power its AI data centres. A recent job posting indicates that Microsoft is actively recruiting a “principal program manager for nuclear technology” to assess the feasibility of integrating nuclear energy into the infrastructure of data centres hosting AI models.

Microsoft‘s focus appears to be on the use of microreactors and Small Modular Reactors, which are more cost-effective and manageable compared to larger nuclear reactors. The goal is to sustain the data centres supporting the Microsoft Cloud and AI infrastructure, which require immense computational power to operate AI models effectively.

AI models, such as ChatGPT, impose substantial server expenses, potentially costing up to $700,000 per day to run. Microsoft sees nuclear energy as a viable solution to address this escalating energy demand.

Microsoft’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its $10 billion agreement with OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT. Microsoft provides cloud services to support OpenAI’s models and has integrated OpenAI’s technology into its Bing search engine.

The environmental concerns surrounding the energy consumption of generative AI are growing. Studies estimate that training models like GPT-3 result in significant carbon emissions and water usage.

Microsoft has recently pledged to accelerate its efforts to power data centres with renewable energy sources and reduce emissions. The company aims to become carbon negative, water positive, and achieve zero waste status by 2030, aligning its goals with a more sustainable future.

Ericsson and IIT Madras Forge Partnership for Cutting-Edge AI Research

By

Sahil Pawar

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September 27, 2023

Telecom equipment manufacturer Ericsson and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have joined forces for collaborative research in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Ericsson has committed to being a Platinum Consortium Member for a period of five years as part of this partnership.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines that Ericsson Research will actively participate in and support all research endeavours at the Centre for Responsible AI (CeRAI).

Dr. Magnus Frodigh, Global Head of Ericsson Research, emphasised the importance of AI in future networks, including 6G, which aim to seamlessly integrate the physical and digital realms. These networks will enable immersive AR/VR experiences and connect humans and machines through AI-controlled sensors.

Ensuring trust, fairness, and privacy compliance with responsible AI practices is crucial. The partnership with CeRAI at IIT Madras aligns with the Indian Government’s vision for the Bharat 6G program.

CeRAI is an interdisciplinary research center focused on responsible AI, aiming to become a premier hub for fundamental and applied research in this field. It aims to have an immediate impact on deploying AI systems within the Indian ecosystem.

Prof. B. Ravindran, Faculty Head of CeRAI at IIT Madras and Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI (RBCDSAI) at IIT Madras, stressed that future networks will facilitate easier access to high-performing AI systems. Embedding responsible AI principles from the outset is essential.

The collaboration marks a significant step toward advancing responsible AI research and development, especially in the context of emerging technologies like 5G and 6G networks. Ericsson and IIT Madras aim to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in these evolving networks.

Meta Set to Unveil “Gen AI Personas” Chatbot Targeting Young Users

By

Sahil Pawar

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September 27, 2023

Meta Gen AI Personas Chatbot Targeting Young Users

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is gearing up to introduce an innovative generative AI chatbot known internally as “Gen AI Personas,” according to the sources familiar with the matter. This new chatbot, which is expected to be officially revealed during the Meta Connect event, aims to engage younger users with its colorful and dynamic behavior. Taking inspiration from the meteoric rise of ChatGPT, Meta’s new chatbot will come in various “personas” to cater to different user preferences.

Reportedly, Meta has already experimented with chatbot personas on Instagram, with some intriguing results. These personas include a “sassy robot” inspired by Bender from Futurama and an inquisitive “Alvin the Alien.” However, some concerns were raised about privacy implications, particularly with regard to data collection.

Meta intends to create numerous such chatbots, spanning a range of personalities. Additionally, the company is reportedly working on a chatbot creation tool that will allow celebrities to develop their chatbots for fan engagement. Some of these chatbots may also have a productivity focus, assisting users with coding and various tasks.

This move aligns with Meta’s broader AI initiatives, which include developing a powerful large language model to compete with OpenAI’s GPT-4. Additionally, Meta is working on an AI model to enhance its Horizon Worlds avatars. During the Meta Connect event, the company plans to delve further into its metaverse project and unveil the new Quest 3 headset.

Meghana Dhar, a former executive from Snap and Instagram, commented on the evolution of chatbots, noting that while they may not immediately scream “Gen Z,” younger users are increasingly comfortable with newer technology. Meta’s primary goal with these chatbots, like many of its products, is to engage users for longer periods, providing more opportunities to serve targeted advertisements.

Spotify Unveils AI-Powered Podcast Translation with Host’s Voice

By

Sahil Pawar

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September 27, 2023

Spotify AI-Powered Podcast Translation with Host's Voice — Image Credits: Spotify

Spotify has introduced an innovative artificial intelligence-powered feature that can translate podcasts into various languages while retaining the original host’s voice. Powered by OpenAI’s voice generation technology, this development aims to create “realistic synthetic voices” from short speech samples, enhancing the authenticity of the podcast listening experience.

In collaboration with prominent podcasters like Dax Shepard, Lex Fridman, Monica Padman, Steven Bartlett, and Bill Simmons, Spotify has already translated select episodes into Spanish, French, and German. These multilingual episodes will be accessible to both free users and paid subscribers in the near future.

Spanish, French, and German were chosen as the initial target languages, aligning with the preferences of Spotify‘s podcast audience. The company plans to expand this feature globally and has hinted at collaborating with more podcasters, including comedian Trevor Noah.

While specific details about the cost of this feature remain undisclosed, Spotify expressed its commitment to further enhancing podcast accessibility and global reach, indicating that this initiative is just the beginning of their efforts in this direction.

Spotify’s foray into AI-powered podcast translation represents a significant step toward breaking language barriers in the podcasting world. By preserving the host’s unique vocal characteristics while delivering content in different languages, the company aims to offer a more immersive and inclusive experience to its diverse user base.