What is artificial intelligence?

If you ask ChatGPT what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is, the answer could be as follows:

Artificial Intelligence refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by computer systems, including learning, reasoning, and self-correction. It encompasses a variety of technologies, such as machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics, aimed at enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI has applications across numerous fields, including healthcare, finance, and transportation, transforming how we interact with technology.

Generative Artificial Intelligence is a specialized branch of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating new content, such as text, images, or music, by learning patterns from existing data. While traditional AI encompasses a wide range of applications like data analysis and decision-making, generative AI emphasizes the production of original outputs that mimic human creativity.

Various areas of application

There are countless areas of application for artificial intelligence, for example in medicine or transport. At universities, too, there are various fields in which AI tools could be used:

• Text-generating tools, which include both general tools and tools developed specifically for academic writing. Many of these text creation tools also have access to the Internet and a corresponding search function.
• Tools for generating images, videos or presentations.
• Translation tools, which can be both text generators and specialized tools.
• Specialized search tools for finding scientific literature or even tools for searching for quality-assured open access publication sites

When using AI tools, it is important to act responsibly and knowledgeably, and to be aware of the potential negative effects and risks.

Updated: September 2026