Course Content
C7: Introduction to AI – Understanding How Machines Learn

Aim:

To explore how AI understands and responds to human voice commands.

Materials:

  • Smartphone or computer with Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri

  • Internet connection

  • Notebook and pen for observations

Steps:

Step 1: Start the Voice Assistant

Say:

  • “Hey Google” or “Alexa” to activate the assistant.

Step 2: Ask Basic Questions

Examples:

  • “What is the time?”

  • “What’s the weather like today?”

  • “Tell me a joke.”

  • “Play a song.”

Observe how quickly and accurately it replies.

Step 3: Try Tricky or Funny Questions

Ask creative questions like:

  • “Who’s your best friend?”

  • “Can you cook food for me?”

  • “What’s 10 divided by 0?”

Notice where the AI struggles or gives funny answers.
Discuss: Why does it misunderstand?

(Answer: Because it only understands patterns in data — not humor, emotion, or context.)

Step 4: Explore Language or Accent Differences

Try:

  • Speaking slowly or in your regional accent.

  • Asking the same question in Hindi or English.

Observe if the AI performs differently.
Discuss:

“Does it understand all accents and languages equally?”

Step 5: Record Observations

In your notebook, make a table:

Question Asked

AI’s Response

Was it Correct? (Yes/No)

Notes/Comments

“What’s the time?”

“It’s 10:35 AM.”

Yes

Accurate

“Can you dance?”

“I can’t dance yet.”

Yes

Funny reply

“Tell me a story.”

“Once upon a time…”

Yes

Impressive

Discussion

  • When did AI respond correctly?

  • When did it misunderstand?

  • Why does language or accent make a difference?

Key point:

“AI understands words through patterns, not feelings. That’s why clarity and good data matter.”

Fill in the form for S’O’A Fablab Orientation 2021.