Glossary of key terms related to Artificial Intelligence

Core concepts

Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Technology that allows computers to perform tasks that usually require human thinking, like understanding language, recognising images, or making decisions.

Machine Learning (ML) – A type of AI where computers learn from examples (data) instead of being directly programmed.

AI Model – The “brain” of an AI system that has been trained to do a specific task, like answering questions or identifying photos.

Training (AI Training) –  The process of teaching an AI system by feeding it large amounts of data so it can learn patterns.

How AI communicates

Chatbot – A computer programme that can have conversations with people through text or voice.

Prompt – The question or instruction you give to an AI. Example: “Explain climate change in simple terms.”

Natural Language Processing (NLP) –  AI that helps computers understand and respond to human language.

Voice assistant – AI that listens and responds to spoken commands (e.g., setting reminders or answering questions).

Large Language Model (LLM) –  A type of AI trained on huge amounts of text (books, websites, conversations) to understand and generate human-like language.

Creative AI

Generative AI – AI that can create new content, such as stories, images, music, or videos.

Hallucinations – When AI gives an answer that sounds convincing but is incorrect or made up.

Data & decision-making

Data – Information (like text, images, or clicks) that AI uses to learn.

Algorithm –  A step-by-step set of instructions a computer follows to solve a problem (like a recipe).

Recommendation system –  AI that suggests content (videos, products, music) based on your behaviour.

Automation –  When tasks are done automatically by technology instead of people.

Safety, rights & risks

Bias (in AI) – When AI produces unfair or unbalanced results because of the data it learned from.

Privacy – Control over personal information: what is collected, stored, and shared.

Digital footprint – The record of what you do online (searches, posts, likes), which may be used by AI systems.

AI ethics – Guidelines to ensure AI is used fairly, safely, and responsibly.

Everyday use

App (Application) – A programme on your phone or computer. Many apps now include AI features.

Facial recognition – AI that can identify a person from a photo or video.

Screen time – Time spent using digital devices – important to manage, especially for children.