We have learnt that computers cannot learn. Computers cannot have the kind of memory that remembers!
Computers can store data but they do not have their own intelligence to use it. To use that data, they need
instructions from humans. Computers cannot decide and handle a situation on their own.
Whatever we humans learn, first goes in our short-term memory just like
primary memory of the computer. By constant practice and repeating, this
learning shifts from short-term memory to our long-term memory. In long-
term memory, the learning remains for pretty long time, even for lifelong.
For example, basic Math, knowledge of other subjects, things we use,
people around us, sports and games we play, the books we read, the movies
we watch and the songs and jokes we listen to. We remember all this
because with constant exposure and practice, we retain it in our long-term
memory.
Sometimes, certain unfortunate events like accidents and shocks occur in
many people’s lives. Their experience directly embeds in our long-term
memory deep for almost lifelong. For example, the electric shock or touch
of a hot object. Remember? That first shock made us learn that hot objects
need to be handled carefully. So,
shocking experiences – good or bad
– influence the depths of our brain
without going through short-term
memory and stay there
permanently.
Besides practice and exposure,
there is interest. Our interest
determines how much we shall learn and remember about anything. That is
why we all have favourite subjects and favourite things we like to do.
Interest determines our likes and dislikes for learning about the things in
the world.
It is the learning that has brought us from the stone age to the modern
information age. And, today, we have modern technology, sophisticated
machines, advanced software and several individuals of great intellect.
Today, we want our machines, our computers to
learn and exhibit intelligence – Artificial
Intelligence!
Brain is far superior than a computer. Computers are faster but they are
not as smart as the brain is.
Let us try to decode the term intelligence.
Many a times we hear that such and such person is very intelligent.
Scientists are intelligent. Astronauts are intelligent. Dog and horse are most
intelligent animals. Parrot and Cockatoos are among most intelligent birds.
Ants, Bees and Termites are intelligent insects.
You must have noticed that while you are good at one thing, your friends
are good in other things. One likes mathematics and the other likes to
compose poetries. One of your friends is a good dancer while another has a
nice voice. Some other people play musical instruments and some are very
good at making friends. You agree? People possess multiple skills, talents
and abilities.
Can you name five of your friends who are good at different things?
The key facts about intelligence are:
Intelligence comes from learning.
Intelligence is used to draw conclusions and solve problems.
To solve different types of problems, different types of intelligence
are needed.