What is machine learning and why it can take your job

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

New algorithms allow computers to solve problems that were previously only possible for humans. On the one hand, this will bring us tremendous benefits, on the other, new challenges for each of us. To prevent progress from catching you by surprise, be alert and watch the situation.

Until recently, programmers had to write complex and very precise instructions even to enable computers to perform the simplest tasks.

Languages have always evolved, but the most significant advance in this area has been the simplification of working with code. Now computers can not be programmed as before, but set up in such a way that they learn on their own.

This process, called machine learning, promises to be a real technological breakthrough and can affect anyone, regardless of their field of activity. Therefore, it will be useful for each of us to understand the topic.

What is machine learning

Machine learning eliminates the need for a programmer to explain in detail to a computer exactly how to solve a problem. Instead, the computer is taught to find a solution on its own. Essentially, machine learning is a very complex application of statistics to find patterns in data and create predictions based on them.

The history of machine learning dates back to the 1950s, when computer scientists managed to teach computers to play checkers. Since then, along with computing power, the complexity of the patterns and predictions that the computer can recognize and make, and the problems that it can solve, have grown.

The algorithm first obtains a set of training data and then uses it to process requests. For example, you can load several photos into your car with descriptions of their contents, such as “this photo shows a cat” and “this photo does not have a cat”. If after that add new images to the computer, it will begin to identify pictures with cats on its own.

The algorithm continues to improve. The correct and erroneous recognition results enter the database, and with each processed photo the program becomes smarter and better and better copes with the task at hand. In essence, this is learning.

Why machine learning is important

Now machines can be safely applied in areas that were previously considered accessible only to humans. While technology is still far from ideal, the bottom line is that computers are constantly improving. In theory, they can evolve indefinitely. This is the main idea of machine learning.

The machines learn to see images and classify them, as in the above photo example. They can recognize text and numbers in these images, as well as people and places. Moreover, computers not only identify the written words, but also take into account the context of their use, including positive and negative shades of emotions.

Among other things, machines can listen to us and respond. Virtual assistants on our smartphones - whether it's Siri, Cortana or Google Now - embody breakthroughs in natural language processing and continue to evolve.

In addition, computers learn to write. Machine learning algorithms are already generating news articles. They can write about finance and even sports.

Such functions can change all the activities based on the input and classification of data that were previously only possible for humans. If a computer can recognize an image, document, file, or other object and accurately describe it, this opens up ample opportunities for automation.

How machine learning is used today

Machine learning algorithms are already capable of impressing.

Medecision uses them to calculate risk factors for various diseases in large communities. For example, the algorithm has identified eight variables that can be used to conclude whether a patient with diabetes needs hospitalization or not.

After searching for the right product in online stores, you may notice that you see advertising for this product on the Internet for a long time. This marketing personalization is just the tip of the iceberg. Companies can automatically send emails, coupons, offers and display recommendations tailored to each client individually. All this more gently pushes the consumer to buy.

Natural language processing is used in many different ways. For example, with its help, employees in support services are replaced in order to quickly provide the necessary information to users. In addition, such algorithms help lawyers decipher complex documentation.

IBM recently surveyed. heads of car companies. 74% of them expect smart cars to appear on the roads by 2025.

Such cars will receive information about the owner and their surroundings using the Internet of Things. Based on this data, they will be able to change the temperature, audio, chair position and other settings automatically. Smart cars will also solve emerging problems themselves, drive independently and make recommendations based on traffic and road conditions.

What to expect from machine learning in the future

The possibilities that machine learning opens up for us in the future are almost endless. Here are some impressive examples.

• A personalized healthcare system that provides patients with personalized medical care based on their genetic code and lifestyle.
• Security software that detects hacker attacks and malware with the highest accuracy.
• Computerized security systems for airports, stadiums and similar locations that identify potential threats.
• Self-driving cars that orient themselves in space minimize the number of traffic jams and accidents.
• Advanced anti-fraud systems that can secure money in our accounts.
• Universal translators that will allow us to receive accurate and fast translation using smartphones and other smart devices.

Why you should watch out for machine learning

While many will experience these opportunities with the advent of new technologies, most will not want to understand how it all works from the inside. But we all better stay alert. Indeed, along with all the benefits, further progress will bring tangible consequences for the labor market.

Machine learning, based on the ever-growing amount of data that almost every person on earth generates, will completely change professions. Of course, these innovations will simplify the work of many people, but there will also be those who will be deprived of their jobs. Algorithms are already responding to emails, interpreting medical images, helping in litigation, analyzing data, and so on.

Machines learn from their own experience, so programmers no longer need to write code for every unusual situation. This learning ability, along with advances in robotics and mobile technology, will enable computers to handle complex tasks better than ever before.

But what will happen to humans when they are surpassed by machines?

According to. World Economic Forum, computers and robots will occupy the five million jobs that humans now own over the next five years.

Thus, we need to keep an eye on how machine learning is changing the workflow. It doesn't matter who you are: a lawyer, a medic, a support worker, a truck driver, or anyone else. Change can affect everyone.

The best way to avoid the unpleasant surprise when computers start taking jobs is to think proactively and prepare.