It’s been almost a year since I started using ChatGPT. During this time, I’ve had dozens upon dozens of conversations that have covered a wide range of topics. Many, if not all of these conversations, have always left me pleasantly surprised in terms of its human-like comprehension, understanding and responses (even when my grammar and spelling is less than perfect). However, I know ChatGPT is not a person, heck, even ChatGPT knows that it is not a person. It is not an individual, sentient or self-aware, nor does it posses consciousness like us human beings.
As I understand it, and in extremely simple terms, it is nothing but an enormous set of data stored in a machine (physical machines) with complex software algorithms that use all manner of pattern matching, sophisticated math, statistics, et cetera, to respond to input from a human being in a human like manner. Remember, that was a very simple definition. Not in agreement with me on it? No problem, here’s what ChatGPT has to say:
would it be fair to say that, in simple terms, chatgpt is a huge data set which is processed by computer algorithms and uses math and statistics and pattern matching, to provide a human like response to what is inputted by a human?
Amit
Yes, you got it! In simple terms, ChatGPT is a computer program that uses a huge amount of data and math to understand what humans type and then tries to respond in a way that sounds like a human. It’s like a smart computer friend that talks to you based on all the things it learned from lots of other text and conversations. 😊
ChatGPT
Two things that jumped out at me. 1) In the above question, I never referred to it as “You,” as in, “…you are a huge data set…,” I referred to it as chatgpt, and when replying, it didn’t refer to itself as “I,” rather, it said “…ChatGPT is a computer program…” So much for having an ego, or its own identity and individuality! 2) I didn’t add that smiley icon, ChatGPT did!
But I digress!
While grabbing a bite to eat and pondering what the future holds in terms of jobs for humans, as well as what humans should be studying given the ongoing advances in the AI space, I had another conversation with ChatGPT (forgive any errors below, as I was typing with one hand and eating with the other at the time):
if you were a human decidin what to study given the advancements of AI and its impact on the job market and traditional careers, what would you study?
Amit
If I were a human considering what to study in the context of AI advancements and their impact on the job market, I would explore fields that are likely to remain relevant and in-demand in the age of automation and artificial intelligence. Here are some areas I might consider:
- AI and Machine Learning: Understanding AI and machine learning technologies is essential in the AI-driven job market. This knowledge can open up opportunities in AI development, data science, and AI ethics.
- Data Science and Analytics: Data-driven decision-making is critical in various industries. Studying data science, data analytics, and big data can provide the skills needed to make sense of large datasets and extract valuable insights.
- Cybersecurity: As technology advances, the need for cybersecurity experts grows. Protecting digital assets, networks, and information is a crucial and evolving field.
- Computer Science and Programming: Strong programming skills are valuable in various tech-related roles. Proficiency in languages like Python, Java, and C++ can be a valuable asset.
- Healthcare and Life Sciences: The healthcare industry will continue to require professionals, including doctors, nurses, and researchers. Combining healthcare expertise with AI knowledge can be particularly valuable.
- Environmental and Sustainable Studies: As environmental concerns grow, there will be increasing demand for experts in sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.
- Robotics and Automation: Understanding robotics and automation technologies can lead to opportunities in designing, maintaining, and improving automated systems in various industries.
- Business and Entrepreneurship: Studying business, entrepreneurship, and innovation can help you create new ventures or lead business transformations using AI and technology.
- Digital Marketing: With the rise of e-commerce and online presence, digital marketing expertise can be valuable in reaching customers effectively.
- Human-Computer Interaction (HCI): Focusing on how people interact with technology and designing user-friendly interfaces can be a valuable skill in creating AI-driven products and services.
- Psychology and Behavioral Science: Understanding human behavior is crucial in AI for personalization, user experience, and marketing.
- Education and Training: There is a growing need for educators who can teach AI concepts and digital skills.
It’s essential to choose a field that aligns with your interests, values, and career goals. Additionally, consider the interdisciplinary nature of many AI-related roles, where combining skills from different areas can lead to unique and valuable expertise. Continual learning, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively with AI systems are also key skills in the changing job market.
ChatGPT
What’s interesting to me was that seven out of twelve of ChatGPT’s suggestions leaned heavily into ICT related areas of study. I then asked another question:
what fields of study or job areas would you avoid due to AI take over if you were human?
Amit
If I were a human considering fields of study or job areas to potentially avoid due to the impact of AI and automation, I might consider areas that are highly susceptible to automation and where AI is likely to replace many tasks. Keep in mind that the degree of automation varies by subfield and specific job roles within these areas. Here are some fields that may be more vulnerable to automation:
- Repetitive Manual Labor: Jobs involving repetitive, manual tasks, such as certain manufacturing and assembly line jobs, are at higher risk of automation.
- Data Entry and Basic Administrative Tasks: Basic administrative roles that involve data entry and routine paperwork are increasingly automated.
- Basic Customer Service: Basic customer service positions, especially those involving routine queries, are being automated through chatbots and AI-driven support systems.
- Routine Financial and Accounting Tasks: Basic bookkeeping, data entry, and routine financial analysis can be automated by AI and accounting software.
- Some Healthcare Diagnostic Tasks: AI is being used to assist in medical diagnostics, particularly for tasks like reading medical images (e.g., X-rays, MRIs).
- Manufacturing and Production Line Work: Many manufacturing and production line jobs can be automated using robots and automated machinery.
- Telemarketing and Basic Sales Roles: With the rise of AI-driven marketing and e-commerce, some telemarketing and basic sales roles may be replaced by automated systems.
- Basic Retail and Cashier Positions: Self-checkout systems and automated retail technologies are reducing the demand for basic cashier roles.
- Basic Data Analysis and Reporting: Jobs that primarily involve generating basic reports and data analysis without deeper insights could be automated.
- Tax Preparation and Filing: Basic tax preparation and filing tasks can be automated using tax software.
It’s important to note that while AI and automation can replace specific tasks within these fields, they often augment human capabilities rather than entirely replacing human workers. Moreover, the impact of automation varies by region and industry, and new opportunities are emerging in AI-related fields, creating jobs that require skills in AI development, data analysis, and AI ethics. To adapt to a changing job market, individuals may consider upskilling, reskilling, or pursuing careers that require critical thinking, creativity, complex problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, which are areas where humans excel.
ChatGPT
There you have it folks, straight from the mouth, so to speak, of an AI (or ChatGPT in this case)! Choose your future wisely!
P.S., the title of this post was generated by ChatGPT, and the images were generated by DALL-E!
caribbeansignal.com is the personal blog of Amit Uttamchandani. The content of this post does not represent the views, beliefs, opinions, et cetera, of Amit’s employers or associates (past, present or future).