AI Literacy & Fundamentals

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks typically associated with human intelligence, such as generating content, recognizing patterns, analyzing information, and answering questions. AI does not think or understand information the way people do. Instead, it identifies patterns in data to predict or generate outputs based on what it has learned. While AI can be a powerful assistant, human judgment remains essential for reviewing results, making decisions, and ensuring accuracy.
Artificial intelligence includes a range of technologies that work together in different ways. This infographic provides a simple overview of key AI concepts—including machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, natural language processing, and AI agents—to help explain how they relate to one another and how they are commonly used.

 

  • Machine Learning (ML)

    Machine Learning is a method where computers learn patterns from data and make decisions or predictions without being explicitly programmed, like a spam filter that learns to recognize junk emails based on examples of past spam.

     

  • Deep Learning (DL)

    Deep Learning is a type of Machine Learning that uses neural networks with many layers—like a digital brain—to learn complex patterns in large amounts of data. You might use deep learning AI for facial recognition on your phone that identifies you even in different lighting or angles.

  • Generative AI

    Generative AI creates new content—like text, images, music, or code—based on patterns it has learned from existing data. This model can utilize Chatbots that write poems, design logos, or generate realistic images from a description.

  • Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    NLP helps computers understand, interpret, and respond to human language—both written and spoken and can be seen in voice assistants like Siri or Alexa that understand your questions and respond naturally.

Learn more about AI

At UMB, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed and empowered with the latest AI tools and resources. Explore the resources below to stay ahead of the curve and discover how you can leverage cutting-edge information in the world of AI.

 UMB provides access to tutorials and resources on  Microsoft Copilot Chat - a secure generative AI tool available via any web browser. You can find tutorials and resources on:

  • Access and login 
  • Integration with M365 and other features
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

The Google Micro-credential courses provide UMB faculty and staff with free online AI courses like:

  • AI Essentials
  • AI Prompting Essentials

These are self-paced and designed to help users incorporate AI into their work effectively. To enroll for free, complete an interest form here.

Percipio, UMB's e-learning platform, provides various AI related learning paths to support personal and professional growth. Search for Artificial Intelligence in your Percipio Library for available courses!