As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to play a bigger role in everyday life, get your questions answered at a free workshop hosted by Bundaberg Library in November.
Hosted by CQU’s Dr Darren Swanson, the ‘AI for Good: Revolutionising the way we live and work’ workshop will cover the positive ways the technology can be used to improve aspects of life and work.
Dr Swanson, an Associate Lecturer in the School of Access Education at CQU, said the aim of the workshop would be to highlight how AI could be harnessed responsibly to create meaningful impacts.
“I’ll focus on the practical applications of AI that drive positive change, such as fostering creativity and improving decision-making,” Dr Swanson said.
“We’ll explore real-world examples where AI is streamlining workflows, automatic repetitive tasks and enabling innovative solutions across different sectors.”
The workshop will also include a practical demonstration on how AI tools work and give participants the chance to experiment with them.
“Attendees will learn how to leverage AI for their specific needs, whether it’s for enhancing productivity, generating creative content or solving complex problems.
“The goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively integrate AI into their own projects and workflows.”
Dr Swanson, who started his academic career in anthropology and cultural history, said he first became interested in AI in late 2022 when platforms like Chat GPT and Midjourney began to appear.
“The arrival of Generative-AI really blew me away with its capabilities and, more importantly, what those capabilities might mean in terms of my own job security as an academic writing lecturer at a university.
“From that point on I began to research the potential of Generative-AI as a research tool for both students and staff at university.”
He said his aim with workshops like these was to demystify the chatter around AI and highlight the value of being able to use these platforms.
“I think AI will increasingly become part of our everyday lives,” Dr Swanson said.
“A bit like mobile phones, what’s new today will be commonplace for most people in a short period.
“It is my firm belief that AI can empower individuals and foster creativity.
“While there is potential for this technology to be disruptive, there’s also a real value in learning to use it responsibly.”
AI for Good: Revolutionising the way we live and work
When: Saturday 9 November, 10 am to noon
Where: Bundaberg Regional Library
Cost: Free but bookings are required here (adult event only)
