Explore the Intersection of AI and Social Science at Virginia Tech

Are you curious about how cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping our world? If so, mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting series of lectures at Virginia Tech! The Department of Geography is excited to announce its latest installment of the AI Experts Guest Lecture Series, focusing on “Generative AI Applications in Social Science.” This isn’t just another academic event; it’s a chance for you to dive deep into topics that could shape the future of our society, government policies, and various industries.

What’s in Store?

Starting from March 5 and running through April 23, this series welcomes prominent leaders and thinkers from across the nation to present a diverse range of topics. Whether you’re a student, educator, or a tech enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek at what to expect:

• March 5: Geographic Information Science (GIS) & AI – Join Zhenlong Li from Penn State University as he explores the fusion of geography and technology.
• March 24: Transportation & AI – Delve into advancements in transportation with Seongjin Choi from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
• March 31 (starting at 3 p.m.): Law & AI – Gain insights from Dyane L. O’Leary of Suffolk University Law School.
• April 2: AI & Wildlife Conservation – Discover the role of AI in preserving nature from Francesco Ferretti at Virginia Tech.
• April 7: AI Literacy and Social Impacts – Jen García from Ingrained.ai provides insights straight from the industry.
• April 9: Recent AI Research Trends – Get updated on the latest research from Ismini Lourentzou of the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.
• April 14: AI for Urban Planning/Design – Insights from Damiano Cerrone at UrbanistAI will show how AI can shape our cities.
• April 16: AI for Higher Education – Learn from Gamze Yilmaz at the University of Massachusetts, Boston on enhancing education through AI.
• April 21: AI for Smart & Sustainable Cities – Jenna Fortunati from HaydenAI will share practical applications from the field.
• April 23: Ethical Issues of AI: AI Ethics Lab – Finally, engage with Nate Walker from Rutgers University to discuss the ethical concerns surrounding AI.

Join the Conversation

The lectures will take place at TORG 1080 and will also be accessible online via Zoom, making it easy for everyone in the Virginia Tech community to participate. To register, simply reach out to Junghwan Kim, and a Zoom link will be provided.

Why This Matters

AI is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s part of our everyday lives, influencing everything from the apps we use to how cities function. Engaging with these topics allows us to better understand the implications of AI on our society. Imagine chatting with experts who are at the forefront of technological advancements—what questions would you ask?

This lecture series not only provides valuable knowledge but also fosters a sense of community around these pivotal issues. Think of it this way: the more informed we are, the better decisions we can make for our future.

Get Involved!

Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity to engage with experts and fellow learners. These sessions promise to inspire and inform, making AI feel less like a buzzword and more like a tool for positive change.

The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.