"Man is still the most extraordinary computer of all" – John F. Kennedy, 196''
Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will lead some to question whether this statement still holds true. While computers have been used to assist with creative processes for some time, the creative input has largely been human. Nowadays, we’re training AI to write news articles, poems and novels, create paintings, produce video games and even compose music. Interest in machine learning will likely only increase as demand for fast, smart, original work - without the need for human endeavour and expense - rises.
But will AI and machine learning augment or replace human creativity? How do we teach creativity to the next generation in a world of AI and machine learning? And how do we ensure teaching creativity and innovation in this world remains inclusive?
The speakers:
The science: Matthew Guzdial, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, University of Alberta and CIFAR IA Chair
Matthew Guzdial's research focuses on the intersection of machine learning, creativity, and human-centered computing. This includes the study of machine learning-based automated game generation, human-AI design collaboration, and improving the transfer and generalization of machine learning with computational creativity. He is the recipient of an NSERC Early Career Investigator Award, a Unity Graduate Fellowship and two Best Conference Papers Awards. His work has been featured on the BBC, WIRED, Popular Science and Time.
Societal Impacts: David Cropley, Professor of Engineering Innovation, University of South Australia
David Cropley's research interests cover creativity in schools and education, assessing organizational innovation capacity, and the link between creative problem solving and engineering. Today a recognized expert in creative problem solving and innovation, David Cropley, PhD. served as science consultant and onscreen expert for ABC TV's Australian documentaries Redesign My Brain (2013), Life at 9 (2014) and Redesign My Brain, Series 2 (2015).
Policy and Ethical Challenges: Val Walker, PhD, CEO, Business + Higher Education Roundtable (TRAES)
Valerie heads the Round Table of Business + Higher Education (TRAES), an association of non-profit members. Responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization, she leads a strong team dedicated to creating, through collaboration, new openings in the Canadian ecosystem of skills and innovation. At the same time, she co-chairs the Future Skills Council, a group formed by the Government of Canada to make recommendations on regional and national priorities for training and development. It is also not uncommon for her to express herself and provide advice on innovation and talent development. Formerly Vice President of Innovation and Talent for the Business Council of Canada and Director of Policy for Mitacs, a national, not-for-profit organization working with 70 universities, 6,000 companies, and both federal and provincial governments, to build partnerships that support industrial and social innovation in Canada.
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