Understanding Algorithms

Introduction to Algorithms

• Algorithms are pervasive in daily applications: social media, search engines, dating apps.
• Definition: A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
• Initial confusion and overwhelming definitions of algorithms.

Expert Insights

Professor Victoria Nash (Oxford Internet Institute)

• Simplified Definition: An algorithm is a set of instructions, similar to a recipe for baking a cake.
• Online Algorithms: Help to organize and generate results from various sources of information.

The Scale of Algorithms

Visit to Dr. Bernie Hogan (University Data Centre)

• Data Centre: Houses thousands of algorithms, performing different calculations.
• Scale: Billions of algorithms operating within these systems.
• Purpose of Algorithms: Manage and process vast amounts of data (e.g., flight prices, tweet rankings).

Concerns About Algorithms

• Transparency: Algorithms often operate in a 'black box' where their processes are not visible.
  • Example: Flight prices can vary based on search day and location, highlighting a lack of transparency.
• Learning Capabilities: Algorithms can learn from data and other algorithms, but they do not think independently.

Coding and Algorithms

Visit to a Coding School

• Coding vs. Algorithms: Coding is the implementation of algorithms in a language that computers understand.
• Example Activity: Programming a drone with specific instructions using an intuitive coding platform (Scratch).
• Practical Challenge: Comparing performance of two algorithms through a drone race.

Advantages and Limitations of Algorithms

• Advantages:

  • Reduces human error.
  • Efficient and speed up decision-making processes.
  • Can identify patterns that humans might overlook.

• Concerns:

  • Potential job displacement due to automation.
  • Over-reliance on algorithms can lead to de-skilling of humans.

Ethical Considerations

• Algorithms influence many aspects of life beyond advertising and dating (e.g., criminal justice, social care).
• Key Question: Who controls the algorithms and the data inputted into them?

Conclusion

• Algorithms are fundamentally simple: Data goes in, instructions are followed, and results come out.
• Importance of understanding the ethical implications and management of algorithms in society.