What will the future look like in a world with generative AI technologies? From health and business to art and education, the rapid advancement of generative AI technologies presents unique challenges for how to effectively manage the impacts of AI systems and ensure that new AI technologies are responsible and trustworthy. From November 28-30, reporters are invited to journey to the future of generative AI during MIT Generative AI Week, a series of events aimed at exploring the latest cutting-edge research, while also stimulating thoughtful analysis and open dialogue about the implications and possibilities of generative AI.
As MIT President Sally Kornbluth noted in a message to the MIT community, “These events are one expression of our conviction that MIT has a special responsibility to help society come to grips with the tectonic forces of generative AI – to understand its potential, contain its risks and harness its power for good.”
The MIT Generative AI Week kicks off with Shaping the Future on Tuesday, November 28, a day of events focused on exploring the future of generative AI. Leaders from a variety of fields – from robotics to healthcare, education, transportation, design, and music – will examine the foundations, applications, and critical ethical dilemmas posed by the rise of generative AI technologies. The day features a keynote address from Rodney Brooks, MIT professor emeritus and co-founder of iRobot and Robust AI, who will discuss the impact of generative AI on robotics and the future of both fields. Refik Anadol, a renowned media artist and director who is transforming the Sphere in Las Vegas with his artificial intelligence data sculpture, will explore the interplay between generative AI and art in his keynote address.
On Wednesday and Thursday, November 29 and 30, leaders in education, health, climate science and management will explore the specific opportunities and challenges posed by generative AI for each respective field. Highlights include:
- Education: During the morning of Wednesday, November 29th, leaders in education will gather to explore how generative AI is transforming the learning experience and teaching practice in K-12, post-secondary education, and workforce upskilling. Speakers will examine what role generative AI should play—both in and beyond the classroom—in supporting effective, engaging, and equitable learning for people of all ages.
- Health and Climate: During the afternoon of Wednesday, November 29, MIT researchers will explore the current state of AI research focused on the health of people and the health of the planet. Talks will illustrate progress in molecular design and sensing applications focused on advancing human health, as well as work to improve climate-change projections, increase efficiency in mobility, and design new materials. A panel discussion will highlight anticipated impacts of AI in these areas.
- Creativity: Thursday, November 30 kicks off with a creativity expo during which faculty experts, researchers, and students will explore questions that allow us to peer into the future—imagining our lives in a world where generative AI-enhanced systems and techniques improve the human condition.
- Management: The MIT Generative AI Week wraps up with a deep dive into the impact of AI on the practice of management during the afternoon of Thursday, November 30th. MIT researchers, policymakers actively working on legislation to ensure that AI is deployed in a fair and healthy manner for consumers, venture capitalists investing in cutting-edge AI technology, and private equity investors who are looking to use AI tools as a competitive advantage will grapple with the impacts of AI on the world of business.
More information on the MIT Generative AI Week can be found here and the full agenda for each day’s events can be found here.
