Why this lesson matters
AI systems can be categorised by what they do rather than by marketing labels. Predictive systems estimate an outcome. Classification systems assign categories. Recommendation systems rank options. Generative systems create new content. Nearly all deployed AI is narrow AI designed for bounded tasks.
Learning objectives
- Compare narrow AI, general AI, predictive systems and generative systems without hype.
- Connect the concept to a real-world example.
- Identify one limitation or responsible-use consideration.
data, instruction or signal
rules, model or process
Key ideas
- Narrow AI can be powerful without being general intelligence.
- Generative and predictive systems solve different problems.
- Capability claims should be tested in the intended context.
Real-world lens
When evaluating this technology, ask what problem it solves, what information it depends on, how success is measured and what happens when it is wrong. This habit is more durable than memorising product names.
Hands-on activity
Choose three AI products and classify each by its main task, input, output and limitation.
Knowledge check
Which statement best reflects responsible technology learning?
Lesson summary
Narrow AI can be powerful without being general intelligence. Generative and predictive systems solve different problems. Capability claims should be tested in the intended context.