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A parent’s guide to AI

How to get the most out of generative AI

In this guide to AI, learn about the different generative AI tools like ChatGPT and My AI. Then, explore how to support learning, creativity and even bedtime using AI tools at home.

Three bots with speech bubbles above the, surrounded by icons to represent the interactive guide to artificial intelligence.

What is artificial intelligence (AI)?

This guide to artificial intelligence will take you through how you can use AI to support children in different ways. But what is AI?

Artificial intelligence is a field of study in computer science. It deals with creating machines that are ‘intelligent’ and can perform tasks like a human.

AI uses information from various sources to provide its information. So, while a tool like ChatGPT might seem intelligent, it is really simply following instructions and information given to it to respond.

Informally, someone might use the term AI or artificial intelligence to refer to the tools themselves.

Guide to AI tools

The following are some popular tools from our interactive guide to artificial intelligence. Learn more by exploring the full guide below.

ChatGPT

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an AI tool that can respond like a human to prompts you give it. It is used in different places, including chatbots and translation tools.

Is ChatGPT safe?

The text ChatGPT generates depends on the prompts it receives. If used in something designed for kids, it should have filters that keep it safe for the relevant age group. However, parents should still monitor the outputs it provides to make sure what children see is appropriate.

DALL-E

What is DALL-E?

DALL-E is a computer programme that makes pictures based on text. Users must purchase credits with real money to generate images.

Is DALL-E safe?

The programme uses other images that already exist to create new ones. As such, it might produce images inappropriate for children to view. Parents and carers should supervise a child’s use of DALL-E to help limit the chances of kids seeing inappropriate pictures.

Google Gemini (formerly Bard)

What is Google Gemini?

Formerly called Google Bard, Google Gemini is a generative AI tool that can generate content based on prompts. It is currently only available to a limited number of people, so it’s unlikely your child will be able to use it right away. Additionally, unlike Bard, Gemini is currently only for those aged 18 or older.

Is Google Gemini safe?

Google Gemini is a recent upgrade to Bard and is still developing. Currently, only adults can use the web app, but age restrictions and additional safety features are yet to come.

My AI from Snapchat

What is My AI?

My AI is a chatbot on Snapchat that was automatically added to users’ chat lists. It responds in human-like and conversational ways unless asked a question relating to Snapchat rules, policies or information.

Is My AI safe?

Like Snapchat, My AI is intended for users aged 13 and older. It has safeguards to protect users from dangerous responses but some outputs might include harmful or misleading information. As such, parents and carers should talk to their teen about the AI and thinking critically about what it says.

One family's experience

Mum of 2 boys, Swazi Kaur, shares her experience and advice for using AI as a family.

READ HER STORY

Interactive parents' guide to AI tools

With a lot of talk about artificial intelligence (AI) across the digital space, people have concerns. However, decades of development in AI led it to its widespread popularity today. As such, you can use AI as a tool to benefit your child and family in many ways.

So, explore the different popular and available tools in our parent’s guide to artificial intelligence below. Then, get tips on how to use tools like ChatGPT for bedtime, learning, creativity and education.


Navigate the interactive guide to AI below by clicking within the guide and using the < > arrows.

AI words to know

When talking about AI, news sources and people on social media may mention the following words. Taken from the full guide to AI above, you can explore some definitions below to stay on top of the conversation.

Algorithm

What is an algorithm?

An algorithm is a set of instructions or rules followed by a computer program. These rules tell the computer to solve a specific problem or perform a task such as recommending content on social media. AI systems use algorithms to process and analyse data.

Bias

What is does ‘bias’ mean?

In general terms, bias is a prejudice in favour of or against something — sometimes without knowing. It can lead to issues like online hate.

With AI, bias refers to the unfair or unequal impact of some AI systems on specific groups of people. This is due to data or design that provides biased information to the AI.

Deep Learning

What is deep learning?

Deep learning is a way computers learn by themselves using a web of connections called a neural network. It helps them recognise patterns without needing instruction.

Ethics

What is are ethics in AI?

Ethics in AI are the moral rules and guidelines for responsible artificial intelligence. It’s all about treating everyone equally, keeping information private, and being honest. Furthermore, those creating AI tools must use AI ethically and take responsibility for any mistakes.

Machine Learning

What is machine learning?

Machine learning is a part of AI that focuses on helping machines to learn and improve from experience without being programmed. It involves algorithms that analyse data and make predictions or decisions.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

What is NLP?

NLP stands for Natural Language Processing. It is a branch of AI that focuses on helping computers to understand, interpret and generate human language. NLP is used in applications like voice recognition (such as Alexa), chatbots (like My AI) and language translation (like Google Translate).

Neural Network

What is a neural network?

A neural network is a computer system designed to act like a human brain. Neural networks are a key part of many AI models. They make deep learning possible.

Responsible AI

What does ‘responsible AI’ mean?

Responsible AI is the practise of designing, developing and launching AI systems in ways that are accountable, transparent, fair and beneficial. Responsible AI promotes ethics and helps make sure users and communities benefit.

Other resources

Learn more about artificial intelligence and more with the following resources.

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