1 Fundamentals of AI
This chapter provide a basic understanding of the fundamental concepts, terms, and implementations of artificial intelligence
By the end of this chapter you will be able to:
- Define key concepts related to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)
- Describe how AI systems learn and make predictions
- Recognize examples of AI in everyday life
- Understand how AI has changed and evolved throughout history
1.1 What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that are capable of employing intellectual processes typically attributed to humans. These include:
- Reasoning: Drawing inferences based on contextual information
- Problem solving: Analyzing a situation and choosing a course of action
- Learning: Changing and adapting based on experiences
- Perception: Collecting and analyzing sensory information from the environment
- Productive language: Communicating with flexibility and variety
Important terms:
Weak AI: AI that was designed to perform a specific task, such as a chatbot or image recognition. This is also known as narrow AI.
Strong AI: Also known as artificial general intilligence (AGI), is a hypothetical computer that could perform a variety of tasks at or above human level. As of now, this is simply a theory or long-term goal of developers and tech companies.
Machine learning (ML) refers to an AI system’s ability to grow and adapt without direct human interference. Modern advancements have led to deep learning, resulting in powerful tools and capabilities such as:
- Computer vision
- Generative AI
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) – e.g., large language models, ambient listening
- Clinical decision support
1.2 How do Machines Learn?
Train algorithms in real time with these activities from Google:
Quick, Draw!
A game where you sketch prompts and an AI tries to guess what you’re drawing. Great for seeing how neural networks learn.
Teachable Machine
Act as a teacher bot and train your own machine learning model using images, sound, or poses.
1.3 History of AI
AI is not a new term, in fact, it was first theorized nearly a century ago in 1936. Modern advancements such as deep learning and large large language models are only possible because of the original theories and works. It is also important to note that throughout history there have been explosions in AI development like we are seeing today, as well as “AI Winters” where unmet expectations lead to disappointment and disinterest. Scroll through the timeline below and below to see some of the most important moments in AI history.
1.4 AI Today
- 10 Helpful Everyday Examples of Artificial Intelligence
- 15 Real-World Applications Everyone Should Know About
- 10 Wonderful Examples of Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) For Good
Before moving on to the next chapter, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
- How do modern AI systems demonstrate human intelligence?
- How has AI changed throughout history and do you have any predictions about the future of AI?
- What impacts will AI have on occupational therapy?
- Can you think of any challenges or risks associated with the way that AI learns, particularly in the context of a healthcare setting?
1.5 Learn More
- What is Artificial Intelligence?
- Elements of AI – Free Online Course
- Crash Course Artificial Intelligence (PBS)
- U.S. Department of Commerce Glossary of AI Terms (PDF)
- AI for Everyone – Free online course (Coursera)
References
Copeland, B. (2025, April 11). Artificial intelligence. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/technology/artificial-intelligence
IBM. (2025, April 11). Artificial intelligence. IBM Design. https://www.ibm.com/design/ai/basics/ai/