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LIFE@Lynchburg: Artificial Intelligence: What It Is, What It Can Do, and Where It May Lead
November 20 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Presented by Dr. Steve Smith ‘88, ‘93 MEd
The development of Artificial Intelligence began in the 1950s, but the deep learning revolution only started in 2012, and the rise of models like ChatGPT-4 is less than 18 months old. To understand the exponential growth in the size and capability of these powerful tools, we need to compare and contrast them with their precursors and differentiate between classic AI, machine learning, and our modern Generative Pre-trained Transformers. The field of AI holds tremendous promise, with advancements in machine vision and natural language processing allowing for almost limitless medical, scientific, and consumer applications. However, it’s equally important to consider the risks posed by AI development, from misuse by malicious actors to unintended consequences.
Stephen C. Smith is a career educator with over 30 years of experience in Lynchburg’s public schools. He has served as a middle school and high school teacher, an elementary principal, a supervisor of math, science, and gifted education, and an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. For the past 14 years, he has been the director and one of the seven faculty members at the Central Virginia Governor’s School for Science and Technology. His undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry and his master’s in curriculum and instruction come from the University of Lynchburg (formerly Lynchburg College), and his doctorate in Education and superintendent’s license were earned at the University of Virginia.
The University of Lynchburg’s LIFE@Lynchburg program offers not-for-credit learning opportunities for community members aged 50 and older. The program features weekly presentations on a variety of engaging topics, taught by current and retired faculty and staff members or area educators and presenters.
Our payment and membership options and benefits provide access to a range of on-campus amenities.
- Semester pass: $85
- Semester Virtual Membership: $49
- Annual Membership: $150
- Annual Virtual Membership: $79
- Single Event Pass: $12
Persons needing accommodations for disabilities at a University of Lynchburg event should contact the Center for Accessibility and Disability Resources at least one week before the event.
