More than a Chatbot: Learn what’s behind the scenes of the latest AI technology

To use applications containing so-called artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly, a basic understanding of what stands behind those technologies is required, also for less technical users. In particular, this is the case for the recent transformer-based language models, enabling applications like ChatGPT.

Mascha Kurpicz-Briki, member of the BIAS project partner BFH, and leader of the technical work package, has recently published a book to support exactly this process. Titled “More than a Chatbot: Language Models Demystified,” the book, released in late 2023 by Springer, introduces the different topics surrounding chatbots, language models and their limitations. It addresses a less technical audience, explaining any required backgrounds as necessary on the way.

The book starts from initial questions such as defining what we mean by an algorithm or machine learning, a technology that stands behind many of the recent AI systems. Through illustrative examples, readers are taken through the exciting developments in natural language processing over the past years. Some key elements are the different ways in which words from human language can be represented to be processed by a computer.

Additionally, the book also transmits a better impression of the typical challenges that are faced by technical team members when working in the field of AI or data engineering, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

The chapter “Stereotypes in Language Models” is particularly relevant to the BIAS project. By explaining how human language is processed by these technologies, the book presents concrete examples of societal stereotypes reflected in models and the ensuing challenges.

“Her guide to how LLMs work steps through all the need-to-know concepts underpinning natural language processing. And by the end of the journey, readers will have a clear understanding of what it takes for computers to process written text.” – James Tyrrell, T_HQ technology and business, techhq.com, December 20, 2023

A must-read for AI enthusiasts! Find the book HERE.