Dear Mr Freeland
1
I propose the launch of a new W3A interest group within Charlbury: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Now and the Future.
Charlbury is some 12 miles west of Oxford. Witney and Chipping Norton are within 20 minutes drive.
2
As you know, artificial intelligence is changing the world rapidly, but it also raises fascinating philosophical questions.
3
I would love to create a space where our members can explore these ideas together in an accessible, jargon-free environment.
4
To give you an idea of a starting focus, I plan to look at how AI intersects with human consciousness and modern physics via the Consciousness resource—to start discussions.
5
This particular resource bridges fascinating topics like quantum mechanics, Eastern philosophy, and how neural networks liase. It offers excellent, short reading prompts that are perfect for starting a monthly discussion group.
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6
Group Details Proposed:
- Frequency: Monthly (say, the second Monday or Tuesday of the month).
- Format: A mix of short presentations, group discussions, and sharing accessible articles/videos.
- Expertise Needed: None! This is an "AI for Everyone" style group where we learn and ponder together.
- Venue: The Charlbury Memorial Hall.
- Finance: Does U3A offer any such support. None expected. Members to pay £3 to pay for hall hire.
7
The national U3A "AI for Everyone" subject network offers structured syllabi and toolkits to help new groups like ours get off the ground, so we will hope to have plenty of central support.
8
Could you please let me know if a group like this is currently missing from or being planned within the west Oxford region, and what the next steps would be to gauge interest among our local members?
9
Charlbury is fortunate to have a community website. I attended the Men's Group yesterday which will be invited to join. You will read this sentence therein. "A modest grant awarded by Oxfordshire County Council and Community Catalysts has helped the group to learn new design and IT skills .."
9
I am aware that such a group recently ran for one meeting under the banner Chipping Norton Science Group or similar. I was impressed by the level of participants who, I am sure, would welcome a new group. I am also confidant that more than several of them would be pleased to make a presentation.
10
I am confident in both starting such a group and that you will take it on board.
There are several topics within this website before any members are "expected" to lead discussion. I am confident that your work will offer plenty of new topics to discuss.
Best wishes
Alan Harrison
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