Glossary

Machine Learning

Machine learning is the branch of artificial intelligence (AI) concerned with creating systems that can automatically improve their ability to perform tasks such as classifying images, interpreting text, or finding patterns in data.

Henderson, H. (2021). Machine learning. In H. Henderson, Encyclopedia of computer science and technology (4th ed.). Facts On File. 

Neural Network

or neural computing, computer architecture modeled upon the human brain's interconnected system of neurons. Neural networks imitate the brain's ability to sort out patterns and learn from trial and error, discerning and extracting the relationships that underlie the data with which it is presented. Most neural networks are software simulations run on conventional computers.

Neural network. (2018). In P. Lagasse, & Columbia University, The Columbia encyclopedia (8th ed.). Columbia University Press. 

Large Language Model (LLM) or Chatbot

"A large language model, or LLM, is a deep learning algorithm that can recognize, summarize, translate, predict and generate text and other forms of content based on knowledge gained from massive datasets." from the NVIDIA blog via ChatGPT FAQ by Nicole Hennig

Generative AI

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a machine learning technology that uses AI technology to understand natural language inputs (called prompts) and to generate natural language outputs (called completions). Users interact with generative AI tools and systems in a question and answer style “conversation."

Australian National University (2023) Chat GPT and other generative AI tools: What ANU academics need to know (PDF, 103KB)