Seton Hall Adds AI-Powered Chat to Tech Support Services
As part of Seton Hall’s ongoing commitment to providing best-in-class technology support, the Department of Information Technology is pleased to announce the launch of its new Pirate Bot, an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide answers to commonly asked technology questions. This recent deployment complements existing chatbots for Advising, Admissions, Financial Aid and Registration, enhancing the University’s comprehensive support services.
The Technology Pirate Bot leverages machine learning to continuously build its knowledge base through each interaction. Thanks to Seton Hall community members who tested the chatbot during a soft launch phase, the Pirate Bot is now well-equipped to answer questions related to the technology resources and services offered at the University, such as how to install or request software, submit assignments on Canvas, or access the Adobe Creative Cloud. While the bot can’t assist with issues related to the specifics of your Seton Hall account, it will connect you to a live IT agent who can.
“The Technology Pirate Bot is transforming digital interactions by providing support that is not only timely but also tailored to a user’s real-time needs,” explains John Fernandes, director of PC Support Services. “Operating around the clock, the chatbot significantly streamlines user experiences, making information and support readily accessible. Together with existing 24/7 access to live IT agents, the addition of our AI-powered chatbot ensures users receive the support they need when they need it.”
We invite the Seton Hall community to start chatting with the Technology Pirate Bot by clicking on the chat widget found on the lower right corner of every technology webpage. Please keep in mind that the chatbot is still in its learning phase, so we encourage you to ask questions to help it improve its capabilities. In cases where the Pirate Bot is unable to provide an answer, you will be directed to alternative methods of support, including live chat with an IT agent, phone and email support, and the option to submit a support ticket. Fernandes emphasizes, “Overall, the Technology Pirate Bot will deliver prompt and effective IT support services, ultimately improving the user experience and engagement within the Seton Hall community.”
AI technology could help US, allies monitor China’s Taiwan invasion intentions
China has stepped up its diplomatic and military pressure against Taiwan, alarming U.S. officials and allies in the region that Beijing is looking to take back the island by force. If projections of a Chinese military invasion to retake Taiwan are accurate, the U.S. can utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and other technology that will indicate to forces in the region that China isn’t engaging in yet another provocative military exercise but is launching the invasion so many predict.
According to experts, AI and machine learning (ML) can help the U.S. and its allies in the region improve the speed and efficiency of war plan development, intelligence assessments, and targeting effectiveness. Retired Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery, who serves as senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, told Fox News Digital AI and ML can help U.S. intelligence experts process the immense amount of surveillance data covering China and the Western Pacific Ocean the U.S. is ingesting.
“This data needs to be rapidly processed, evaluated, and disseminated, and AI and ML can make that a more agile and efficient process. This, in turn, can give the U.S. military and policymakers decision-making advantages,” Montgomery added. Decision-makers can easily misinterpret the intentions of hostile forces, mistaking training exercises as an actual prelude to military action. New technology can prevent the possibility that miscalculation will lead to an unnecessary armed confrontation.
FSU’s 2024 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Expo
Over the past year, the public and academia have experienced the power artificial intelligence and machine learning possess to fundamentally change the way people interact with one another, with technology, and with the world. Florida State University is bringing together experts in the use of these technologies for the 2024 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Expo, AIMLX24, an exploration of the latest applications of AI and machine learning in health care.
The expo, which features expert presentations and a panel discussion, is presented by the FSU Interdisciplinary Data Science Master’s Degree Program and will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee. “Better understanding the applications of AI and machine learning techniques is crucial for navigating the future landscape of work and daily life,” said Zhe He, AIMLX24 co-organizer and an associate professor in the FSU School of Information, part of the College of Communication and Information. “For researchers and innovators, knowledge about these techniques is crucial for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, leading to breakthroughs in science and technology.”
AI’s cutting-edge technology focuses on building systems that learn and improve from history and experience rather than through programming. The rapid improvements in AI are having profound impacts on a wide array of industries, including academic research. This year’s expo will focus on AI’s emerging role in health care, featuring presentations from professors, researchers, and health care experts. Attendees will learn about new advancements in AI in health and medicine, hear valuable perspectives during individual presentations, and engage with practitioners in an interactive panel discussion.
“Proficiency in AI and machine learning also opens up a wealth of career opportunities,” He said. “As demand for these skills grows across sectors, those who are knowledgeable will have a competitive advantage in the job market.” AIMLX24’s keynote speaker is Yuan Luo, director of the Institute for AI in Medicine and an associate professor of health and biomedical informatics in Northwestern University’s Department of Preventative Medicine.
“AI is here to stay,” said Gordon Erlebacher, FSU IDS program director and professor of scientific computing. “FSU’s IDS program teaches students to handle all types of data with the help of statistical, mathematical, and computational tools. At the expo, students will learn about the applications of their coursework and challenge their expectations as to what is possible. I hope the attendees gain an appreciation of the new life-changing tools on the near-horizon, such as personalized medicine.”
Concerns are commonly articulated about the potential for AI software to be abused, not least by those most invested in the technology’s development. The expo will respond to these concerns and foster discussion on the importance of responsible use. “It is important to know that AI and machine learning are not just technical subjects; they are catalysts for transformation across all facets of society,” He said. “Understanding them is key to unlocking their potential and mitigating their risks.” AIMLX24 is sponsored by FSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, College of Communication and Information, School of Information, Department of Computer Science, Department of Scientific Computing, Department of Mathematics, Department of Statistics, and the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. For the full schedule of presentations, topics, details on the presenters, and more, visit datascience.fsu.edu/aimlx.
