Week 2: Brainstorm, title/question, research, building, sources and making reference list.

  • Brainstorm notes:
  1. I’m interested in AI’s impact on Software Engineers.
  2. How can AI assist software engineers?
  3. Can AI completely take over the jobs of software engineers?
  4. How can AI make software engineering jobs easier?
  5. Is AI efficient/trustworthy in the coding industry?

  • Five Possible Topics
  1. AI affecting learning negatively/positively.
  2. AI helping create more leisure time.
  3. AI helping create more security or invasion.
  4. AI in farming.
  5. AI assisting mental health.
  • Two PSA’s I like with APA citations
  1. Pruitt, S. (2023, September 19). Uncovering the secret identity of Rosie the Riveter. HISTORY. https://www.history.com/news/rosie-the-riveter-inspiration
  2. Caldwell, J. (n.d.). How to use Digital Signage to Encourage Social Distancing in Your Store. Rise Vision, Inc. https://www.risevision.com/blog/how-to-use-digital-signage-to-encourage-coronavirus-social-distancing-in-your-store

APA References

Halpern, S. (2023, December 8). The Year A.I. Ate the Internet. The New Yorker. https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/profscanlan-english1121-spring2024/files/2024/02/Halpern-AI-at-the-Internet-NewYorker-2023.pdf

Biever, C. (2023, July 27). The Easy Intelligence Test that AI Chatbots Fail. Nature. Celeste-Biever-AI-Chatbots-Fail-Nature

King, C. (2024, May 9). A.I.’s impact in its first year in software engineering. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-engineering/2023/12/07/ais-impact-in-its-first-year-in-software-engineering/

Week 3: Body text, generative AI versions, and comparison essay

The Three Versions of My PSA:

Version 1: My own Writing.

Title: Software Engineers working with AI: Pros and Cons

As AI continues to grow rapidly and become more efficient, software engineers have a new tool to help them improve their work. AI has the ability to generate codes, identify and fix bugs which forwards the process of development. However, Engineers shouldn’t completely rely on AI as it can be biased and lack the ability to understand how and why they made their decision. It is important to understand that AI can be helpful and at the same time harmful. This is one of the main reasons why everyone not only engineers should, if necessary, use it moderately.

Version 2: ChatGPT #1:

Prompt: rewrite this PSA to be college graduate reading.

ChatGPT:

As AI technology evolves rapidly, it presents software engineers with a powerful tool to enhance their work. AI can now generate code, identify bugs, and expedite the development process. However, engineers should exercise discernment, as AI models may carry biases and lack an understanding of the rationale behind certain decisions. While AI can be both beneficial and potentially limiting, it’s important to recognize the need for a balanced approach. This cautious engagement with AI extends beyond engineering—everyone should consider using it thoughtfully and in moderation when appropriate.

APA citation GPT40

Version 3: ChatGPT #2:

Prompt: rewrite this paragraph by adding more precautions

CharGPT:

As AI technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, it offers software engineers a powerful tool for enhancing productivity by generating code, identifying bugs, and streamlining development processes. However, this power comes with significant considerations. Engineers must exercise caution, as AI tools can carry embedded biases, generate unpredictable outputs, and lack an understanding of the underlying reasoning or ethical considerations in decision-making. Relying too heavily on AI can result in compromised code integrity and unforeseen consequences in applications.

It’s essential to approach AI as a supportive tool, not a replacement for human expertise and critical thinking. Regular auditing, thorough testing, and human oversight should remain central to ensure that outputs align with both technical and ethical standards. Beyond engineering, this measured approach to AI usage applies to everyone. AI has transformative potential, but thoughtful, moderate use is key to leveraging it safely and responsibly.

APA citation

GPT40

Comparison Essay: at least 300 words

The three paragraphs present a progressive perspective on the role of AI in software engineering, emphasizing both its benefits and the necessity for caution. Each version conveys the message that while AI can significantly enhance the efficiency of development processes, it should not be relied upon exclusively. However, the depth of caution and the articulation of risks evolve through the iterations.

The first paragraph introduces AI as a tool that improves software engineering by generating code and fixing bugs. It notes the potential drawbacks of AI, such as bias and a lack of understanding in its decision-making processes. The message emphasizes the importance of moderate use among engineers and acknowledges the dual nature of AI as both helpful and potentially harmful. However, it remains relatively surface-level, focusing mainly on engineers without delving deeply into the implications of AI reliance.

The second paragraph expands on these themes, reinforcing the idea that engineers must exercise discernment when using AI. It articulates the risks associated with biases and unpredictability, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining human oversight. This version urges a balanced approach, positioning AI as a tool to augment human capabilities rather than replace them. It introduces the concept of ethical considerations and the need for regular auditing, which underscores the complexity of AI’s integration into the software development landscape.

The final paragraph takes the discussion further by emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive strategy to mitigate risks associated with AI usage. It advocates for human expertise, critical thinking, and thorough testing, framing these as essential components in ensuring ethical and technical standards. The call for moderation extends beyond engineers, highlighting the broader societal implications of AI technology. Overall, this progression reflects a deepening understanding of the challenges posed by AI, advocating for a cautious, responsible approach to its adoption in software engineering and beyond.

Cornerstone sources:

These two articles were helpful

King, C. (2024, May 9). A.I.’s impact in its first year in software engineering. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-engineering/2023/12/07/ais-impact-in-its-first-year-in-software-engineering/

Thales Group. (2024, October 28). Why AI is a perfect partner for software engineers. https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/countries-europe/united-kingdom/news/why-ai-perfect-partner-software-engineers#:~:text=AI%20is%20helping%20software%20engineers,and%20opportunities%20within%20software%20engineering.

Week 4: Complete Week 3 and perform in-class Peer Review

Week 5: Final PSA Poster, Final Reflection, APA References, and brief Presentation.

Montserrat’s PSA

Tittle:

Navigating the AI Revolution: Essential insights for New Engineering Graduates.

Key Question:

How can graduated engineering students effectively integrate AI tools into their workflow while maintaining critical thinking and minimizing potential biases?

PSA:

As AI continues to grow rapidly and become more efficient, software engineers have a new tool to help them improve their work. AI has the ability to generate codes, identify and fix bugs which forwards the process of development. However, Engineers shouldn’t completely rely on AI as it can be biased and lack the ability to understand how and why they made their decision. It is important to understand that AI can be helpful and at the same time harmful. This is one of the main reasons why everyone not only engineers should, if necessary, use it moderately. It’s essential to approach AI as a supportive tool, not a replacement for human expertise and critical thinking. This ensures that AI remains a resource rather than a liability, helping to augment human work without undermining it. Moderation and oversight are key to maximizing the benefits of AI while minimizing its risks.

Call-to-Action:

Embrace AI as a tool, but don’t forget the value of your own expertise! As a new engineering graduate balance AI’s support with your critical thinking to create reliable, innovative solutions. Lead responsibly in the growing world of AI.

For more information, read these articles!

Chavez, T. (2023, October 5). How recent graduates should navigate the age of AI. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomchavez/2023/06/21/how-recent-graduates-should-navigate-the-age-of-ai/

King, C. (2024, May 9). A.I.’s impact in its first year in software engineering. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-engineering/2023/12/07/ais-impact-in-its-first-year-in-software-engineering/

Thales Group. (2024, October 28). Why AI is a perfect partner for software engineers. https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/countries-europe/united-kingdom/news/why-ai-perfect-partner-software-engineers#:~:text=AI%20is%20helping%20software%20engineers,and%20opportunities%20within%20software%20engineering.

Reflection Essay: 400-600 words.

Throughout this project, I have gained significant insight into the evolving relationship between software engineering and artificial intelligence (AI). I’ve learned that AI is transforming how engineers approach development, offering new tools for code generation, bug detection, and optimization. The potential of AI to automate mundane tasks allows engineers to focus on higher-level problem-solving and innovation. However, the project also emphasized the limitations of AI, especially regarding biases in decision-making and the lack of contextual understanding in its output. This balance of benefits and drawbacks has been crucial to understanding how AI should be integrated into the field of software engineering.

The easiest part of this project was grasping the sheer potential AI holds for the software development process. The positive impacts of AI in speeding up tasks, identifying patterns, and suggesting solutions were straightforward to understand. It was clear that AI could automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for engineers to focus on more complex issues, which is a significant advantage in an industry driven by efficiency and constant innovation.

On the other hand, the hardest part of this project was acknowledging the limitations and risks associated with AI. While AI tools are powerful, they also come with inherent biases that can affect their outputs. Understanding that AI does not “think” or “understand” in the way humans do was challenging. Engineers must be aware that while AI-generated code might look correct on the surface, it may overlook nuanced factors, leading to subtle bugs or security risks. This highlights the necessity of not blindly trusting AI but using it as a complement to human expertise. Identifying these nuances and understanding the complexities of balancing AI’s advantages with its limitations required a deeper level of analysis and consideration.

If I had another week, I would dive deeper into the ethical considerations of using AI in software development. Although this project touched on the risks of bias and the need for critical oversight, I feel there is more to explore in terms of how AI could impact the diversity of ideas and perspectives in engineering teams. I would also investigate how AI’s role in automating tasks could affect employment within the industry. By exploring these topics more fully, I could gain a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term implications of AI integration in the workplace.

During this project, my views on generative AI have shifted significantly. Initially, I viewed AI primarily as a tool for productivity and innovation. However, I now recognize that, while AI can enhance human capabilities, it cannot replace the critical thinking, creativity, and ethical considerations that human engineers bring to the table. Generative AI is an excellent tool when used wisely, but it should never overshadow the importance of human oversight and decision-making. I now see AI as an augmentation of human effort rather than a replacement, which has reshaped my perspective on how technology can enhance, rather than replace, the work we do.

Ultimately, this project has helped me understand both the immense potential and the inherent risks of generative AI in software engineering. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for engineers, particularly recent graduates, to embrace it with caution and a critical mindset. AI can assist, but it should never replace the thoughtful decision-making and ethical responsibility that come with human involvement.

References:

Biever, C. (2023, July 27). The Easy Intelligence Test that AI Chatbots Fail. Nature. Celeste-Biever-AI-Chatbots-Fail-Nature

Chavez, T. (2023, October 5). How recent graduates should navigate the age of AI. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomchavez/2023/06/21/how-recent-graduates-should-navigate-the-age-of-ai/

Crawford, K. (2021). Atlas of AI: Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence. Yale University Press. pp. 1-7. KCrawford-Atlas-of-AI-Intro

Halpern, S. (2023, December 8). The Year A.I. Ate the Internet. The New Yorker. https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/profscanlan-english1121-spring2024/files/2024/02/Halpern-AI-at-the-Internet-NewYorker-2023.pdf

King, C. (2024, May 9). A.I.’s impact in its first year in software engineering. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-engineering/2023/12/07/ais-impact-in-its-first-year-in-software-engineering/

OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 20 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat

Thales Group. (2024, October 28). Why AI is a perfect partner for software engineers. https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/countries-europe/united-kingdom/news/why-ai-perfect-partner-software-engineers#:~:text=AI%20is%20helping%20software%20engineers,and%20opportunities%20within%20software%20engineering.

Aha Moment

My “Aha!” moment in this project might be when you realize that while AI can speed up tasks and help with coding, it can’t replace human creativity and judgment. You might first think AI can do all the thinking for you, but then you understand that it lacks the deep understanding and context that humans have. This moment of realization shows you that AI is meant to work alongside humans, not take over. It’s about using AI to help, not replace, your skills.