Artificial Intelligence vs. Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are often used interchangeably when speaking about technologies that learn and adapt to their surroundings, however that would be an incorrect use semantically.
Artificial Intelligence is the broader term, referring to the science and technique behind the engineering of the computer-learning process.1 AI is trained to mimic that of human abilities regarding decision making and problem solving. AI strives to behave like the human mind in how it is programmed.2
Machine learning, on the other hand, is a subcategory of artificial intelligence in which the coding improves itself over time without any provided direction. ML uses neural networks and deep learning to evolve after being exposed to more and more data.3 Using algorithms, it analyzes the data it has been provided and is able to learn from it and make decisions based upon the information learned.
An example of artificial intelligence would be Siri or Alexa built into our phones and smart devices. When triggered, they are to do exactly what you asked of them, be it schedule an appointment, play a song, or tell you about the weather. Nevertheless, both Siri and Alexa use machine learning to get better over time. The data collected on the back end, should you opt into sharing, allows them to learn from mistakes they have made and notate positive experiences. Alexa can now even carry on the conversation as if she is asking follow-up questions!4
While both forms of technology are created to learn and adapt, the key difference between artificial intelligence and machine learning is that AI is essentially the vehicle which machine learning uses to carry out its tasks.
Marr, Bernard. “What Is the Difference between Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning?” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 13 May 2019, https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2016/12/06/what-is-the-difference-between-artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning/?sh=38872b6d2742.
“Difference between Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning - Javatpoint.” Www.javatpoint.com, https://www.javatpoint.com/difference-between-artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning.
Oppermann, Artem. “Artificial Intelligence vs. Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning: What's the Difference?” Artificial Intelligence vs. Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning: What’s the Difference?, 19 July 2021, https://builtin.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-vs-machine-learning.
Marr, Bernard. “Are Alexa and Siri Considered Ai?” Bernard Marr, 15 July 2021, https://bernardmarr.com/are-alexa-and-siri-considered-ai/.
