How I Made Artificial Intelligence My Friend
Claude Paul Boivin
Claude Paul Boivin, Chair of the Alumni Executive, recently posted this story in the newsletter of CARP Ottawa. CARP is the Canadian Association of Retired Persons. Claude Paul chairs CARP’s Ottawa branch.
In an age where technology often feels overwhelming, I wondered how artificial intelligence (AI) could make my life as an older adult easier. I had heard of ChatGPT, a free cloud-based web application, and decided to give it a try. I was especially interested in obtaining support in my volunteer work with three not-for-profit organizations.
At first, I used ChatGPT as a search tool requesting such things as a template for a committee’s terms of reference, a sample job description for an association employee, and a model process for strategic planning. In all three instances, within a few seconds, ChatGPT provided me with near-perfect documents that required only minor adaptations to fit the given specific situations.
After that success, I tried using ChatGPT for personal matters such as how to deal with slow emails; how to treat plantar fasciitis; how to seed a lawn, etc. Again, eureka, within seconds, I received the information I needed.
Finally, I had a few business letters to write, so I asked ChatGPT for drafts. After providing just a few key words, lo and behold, solid, well-articulated letters were produced. They, of course, needed editing, but saved me so much time in getting the main body of the letters together.
Unlike the vast oceans of information on Google, which can sometimes drown us in so much data and too many options sponsored by for-profit companies chasing our money, ChatGPT is a more user-friendly tool that instantly cuts to the chase. Of course, ChatGPT has its limitations and it’s not infallible. The model’s knowledge is based on information available up to its last training cut-off in 2021, so it might not have the latest events or developments. Like any AI model, ChatGPT might inadvertently generate incorrect or misleading information. It’s always a good idea to cross-check important facts with reliable sources. In terms of privacy, it’s wise not to share sensitive personal information like your social security number, banking details, or passwords, as you should with any digital interaction.
With those cautions, I encourage you to give ChatGPT a try, whether it’s for learning, entertainment or drafting a letter, a speech, or an article, and it’s free. Big companies and governments are now using AI all the time, and there is no reason why we retired seniors should not take advantage of that technology as well.
For those of you who may be concerned about students misusing the technology, the Canada Chair in AI Law and Data Governance, Ignacio Cofonde, recently wrote in the Globe and Mail that he encourages his students to use ChatGPT as it can enhance critical thinking, if the technology is employed thoughtfully and ethically.
As for me, I’ve largely said “goodbye” to Dr. Google, and “hello” to ChatGPT!
Bulletin 73
July 2024