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Can AI help us communicate with whales?

Overview

In this lesson, students will learn how AI is used to analyze whale soundwaves and detect patterns by identifying similar sounds. Students will have the opportunity to listen to real whale sounds and explore a research tool designed by Google, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC). Through this exploration, students will consider the role of AI in marine research and understand why this technology is vital for conservation efforts.

  • AI & Science
  • 60 minutes
  • Created by Isabel Paz Reyes Sieh, CRAFT Student Designer 2022
  • Adapted by Chris Mah
A picture of a whale in the ocean bathed in sunlight

Digital Materials

Objectives

After this experience, students will be able to

  • Explain how AI can be used to identify whale sounds.
  • Summarize key arguments for and against using AI to communicate with whales.
  • Develop and defend a preliminary position on whether or not AI should be used this way.

Questions explored

In this experience, students will consider

  • Can AI help us communicate with whales?
  • Should we use AI to communicate with whales?

Key Terms

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The ability of computers to imitate human-like thinking, learning, and problem-solving.
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