How Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence can be used for Social Good

With the advancement in technologies, these days, it has become almost impossible to turn a blind eye to its uses. One of the most progressing and talked about technology is Machine Learning. What is machine learning? For a layman, it means the ability of our computers to learn something without being explicitly programmed. It is closely linked to computational statistics. It focuses on devising complex models for solving problems with a predictive nature. Learning simply implies the method undertaken by the computer to train itself for a particular problem and provide its solution.

Machine learning branches out to a very popular field called Artificial Intelligence (AI). It refers to the intelligence possessed by a machine that is usually associated with humans and other animals.

It is safe to say that Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence have taken over almost every field. Many think Artificial Intelligence is just the use of robots, but it’s a very limitless field. From performing medical diagnosis to expert systems used in the aviation sector, Artificial Intelligence finds itself useful everywhere. Intelligent Tutoring Systems are being extensively used in the education sector. Algorithmic Trading can be accomplished with the help of several complex AI systems.

Nowadays, we can view a better picture of our society with the help of machine learning and artificial intelligence. A lot of organizations make use of this technology to bring about societal reform. One such big organization is IBM, which has undertaken several projects for changing the future of the food industry with the help of Artificial Intelligence. Other altruistic effects of AI can be seen in the education sector. Use of Alternative Learning has changed the shape of how we view education. One such platform uses Adaptive learning is Knewton. It provides personalized content by making use of machine learning that as a result improves the performance of students. Quill is another such software that aims at imparting free online grammar tools to students who are financially weak. The fragment-detection algorithm used in Quill amalgamates machine learning and natural language processing.

Advances in Machine Learning and AI are capable of finding solutions to environmental problems. IBM endeavors to improve the air pollution levels by establishing the Green Horizons initiative. Implemented in China, it makes use Artificial Intelligence to predict and analyze the air pollution levels throughout Beijing with the help of sensors installed.

In the agriculture industry, AI contributes by forecasting crop yield.

AI is advantageous in the healthcare industry. AI based virtual nursing assistants have been developed. These assistants follow up with patients post their discharge from hospitals. Companion bots have been created to help patients suffering from depression and stress, especially for senior citizens. One such popularly used bot is X2AI’s Tess.

Urban computing makes use of AI for managing traffic signals and ensure smooth traffic flow. Emission of gases from vehicles can be kept under check using Machine Learning techniques.

In conclusion, the use of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is omnipresent and has dispensed several societal benefits.