Kansas State University’s AI Symposium teaches public about the growing technology

Kansas State University (K-State) is making waves in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) with its recent AI Symposium held in Manhattan, Kansas. The event aims to enhance public awareness and understanding of AI, focusing not only on its foundational concepts but also on its practical applications and societal impacts.

### Understanding AI

The symposium, which is open to both K-State students and the general public, offers an engaging platform for dialogue and learning. “We are kind of increasing the awareness of artificial intelligence, both in its foundations and in its applications,” said Pascal Hitzler, a prominent computer science professor at K-State. Such educational initiatives are essential as AI continues to permeate various aspects of life, fostering a need for knowledgeable discourse around its implications.

### Key Highlights of the Symposium

Spanning three days, the AI Symposium features panels and workshops with guest speakers from both the university and external organizations. One of the enthusiastic participants, Nick Chong, a Fellow Fund venture partner, expressed his excitement about reviving the AI conversation on campus. His insights could potentially foster innovative ideas that resonate well with the local and university community.

By demystifying AI—explaining how it works and what it entails—K-State aims to alleviate common fears associated with this rapidly evolving technology. Professor Hitzler emphasizes the importance of understanding AI: “Understanding what happens with AI or how AI actually manages to do what it does helps to de-mystify what it does. So I think it also helps take the scare out of it.” This sentiment is vital in today’s landscape where misinformation and lack of understanding can lead to skepticism around AI technologies.

### Specialized Areas Discussed

Each day of the symposium highlights AI’s applications in various disciplines. A particular focus is on agriculture, an industry crucial to Kansas’s economy. With Kansas State being a land-grant university, it recognizes its responsibility to integrate cutting-edge technology into traditional practices, particularly in agriculture. Hitzler remarks on the complexity and importance of evolving agricultural practices: “Agriculture is a very complex thing. And bringing agriculture into the future, of course, is important for Kansas.”

Chong adds that technology constantly evolves, and AI represents a new frontier: “Like everything else in technology, right, there are always iterations of new things. This is a new frontier, so this is how we embrace it and learn it and tackle it.” This progressive approach reflects a commitment to adapting and thriving in an increasingly technology-driven world.

### Engagement and Accessibility

The AI Symposium is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all. Held at several venues including K-State’s Hale Library and Manhattan Public Library, as well as online via Zoom, organizers ensure that information is available to a broad audience. This flexibility is crucial in creating an informed community that understands the significance of AI in today’s society.

For those interested, registration for the event is provided on their official website, allowing participants to tailor their experience based on their specific interests in AI.

### Conclusion

Kansas State University’s AI Symposium represents a significant step forward in enhancing public understanding of artificial intelligence. By focusing on foundational knowledge, practical applications, and societal impacts, the event fosters an environment that encourages curiosity and innovation. With future industries dependent on technological advancements like AI, K-State takes a proactive stance in preparing its community for the changes ahead.

Through workshops, panels, and discussions, participants gain valuable insights that help demystify AI, opening up possibilities for its integration into various fields—most notably agriculture. The dialogue initiated at this symposium is just the beginning of what can be an ongoing conversation around the applicability and implications of AI in everyday life.

As we move forward, events like the AI Symposium at Kansas State University will continue to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between technology and society, empowering individuals to engage intelligently with the world around them.

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