As many people will be aware, we are in the world of ever-changing innovation, especially with technology, and the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The introduction of new technology without education and guidance (mentoring) have cause some issues, like many of us have mistaken the AI and ML for each other, calling everything that is AI as the common branding of ChatGPT (like Kleenex for tissues), and using Generative AI like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, CoPilot and thinking that you are getting the same thing (like thinking Apple’s iCloud, Window’s OneDrive, Chrome’s Google Drive and Dropbox have the same functionality as cloud computing products, like Sony PlayStation, Window’s Xbox and Nintendo Switch as the same gaming consoles). Confused? Great, read on to learn more.
So, what is the difference in a nutshell for those who have been living under a rock for some time? Well, I will be your glossary professor of advanced technology, so you will be in the know!
Glossary:
*Artificial Intelligence (AI): dedicated to creating machines capable of performing tasks that usually require human intelligence. So, you can go from manual to digital to AI through a process.
*Machine Learning (ML): a subset of AI that enables systems to automatically learn and improve from experience (data) without being explicitly programmed. So, in other words, the AI is learning from its own mistakes and making less mistakes from any type of feedback.
*Generative AI (Gen AI): a category of AI Algorithms that can generate new and original content, including text, images, audio, and code. See ‘products/models’ for examples.
*Large Language Model (LLM): a massive AI model trained on vast amounts of text data to understand, summarise, generate, and predict human language. See ‘models’ below for examples.
*Natural Language Processing (NLP): the technology used to teach computers how to understand, interpret, and manipulate human language. So, other words, it is like a software.
*Neural Networks (NN): a computing system loosely inspired by the human brain, which forms the underlying architecture for most modern AI models. So, imagine an AI-inspired brain.
*Prompts and Responses: the prompts are the data inputs that you want to seek or gather information, and the more detailed the prompt, the better the response will be, instead of a general response. As the saying goes, “There are many ways to cook an egg (over 100 ways)”.
*Chatbot: is a computer program designed to simulate human conversation with users, either through text messages or voice commands. It is often used instead of technical support staff.
Self-paced Learning:
Here are some free courses to learn more about AI:
*Google AI (link) – this is great for understanding generative AI and Google AI platforms.
*OpenAI Academy (link) – this is great for expert and community-led learning for collaboration.
*AI in government fundamentals – Australian Public Service Academy (link) – this is open to APS employees only who can access it on the APSLearn Platform.
Products/Models:
So here are the different products that are in the market at the moment at this point of the article. This will not go in-depth for every product (as it is a lot), but these should be enough to get you across the line so that ICT or digital staff members will know that you are smart enough to avoid them saying “Have you tried turning your brain system on and off?”
*ChatGPT (developed by Open AI): is the most well-known conversational AI. Its strength lies in its ability to engage in natural, free-flowing dialogues, especially as separate chats like OneNote. (link)
*Co-Pilot (from Microsoft): its primary differentiator is its deep integration into the Microsoft ecosystem, including Windows and Office 365, so it is a productivity-enhancing tool. (link)
*Google Gemini (Google’s flagship chatbot): it is a multimodal AI model which allows for more sophisticated and versatile application, from analysis visual datasets to engaging chats. (link)
*Google Notebook LLM (from Chrome): it is an AI researcher tool and thinking partner. (link)
*Claude AI (developed by Antropic): strong emphasis on AI safety and ethical guidelines and it is a strong performance in complex reasoning guided by a set of core principles. (link)
*Plexity Labs: functions as an “answer engine” rather than a traditional chatbot. Its inclusion of citations and sources for the information provides accurate, up-to-date answers. (link)
*Deep Seek (from China): this is an AI application that has been banned by the Australian Government, but it is still accessible on the open browser. However, there are many risks with using Deep Seek, and this BC article expands on why this is the case including privacy: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-15/deepseek-ban/105004886.
Sandbox for creating an AI for yourself:
So, now that you know the basics, do you want to build your own AI version for yourself? Well, there are many websites where you can create your own AI, share it with others privately or online, and get tailored-made responses from prompts added in. I would like to encourage you to play it safe and make sure to adhere to the government’s guidance on AI.
*Poe – here is the link. This gives you access to the best AI tools that you use for your own.
Government Initiatives:
If you want to learn more about relevant Australian Government website on AI, here are the links:
*AI in Government (link) – Digital.gov.au – Policy for responsible use of AI in Government.
*Supporting safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence (link) – APSC
*National Framework for assurance of AI in Government (link) – Department of Finance.
*Artificial Intelligence Strategy (link) – NSW Government – Digital NSW
About Luka:
From AIM’s data visualisation and insight course (non-promoted), I learnt that you go from data to information, knowledge, insights, and wisdom. With data, you gather information to tell a story, which is the end product to your audience.
From my inclusiveness experience, I always say, ‘You are Unique; what matters most is how you see yourself’. From my professional life, ‘Data is unique; like everyone, we are all part of intersectionalities that define us, and it is meant to be shared’.
See Luka’s profile here.
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