Computers Don't Byte

Ever wondered how algorithms make sense of complex problems? In this episode, we dive deep into the art of designing algorithms with associate professor Mitra Baratchi. Exploring how computers process data, find connections, and deliver insights. While algorithms can solve many challenges, there are limits to their accuracy. How can researchers identify these gaps and guide users toward the best solutions. How much should we rely on algorithms, and where does human expertise come in? 

How and why do humans form relationships with AI? This question lies at the core of Assistant Professor Peter van der Putten’s research. While AI sparks fear—raising concerns about its impact on our place in the universe—it also fascinates us, offering glimpses into an unknown future. But can we truly bond with AI? It’s one thing to feel attached to a humanoid robot or a robotic pet, but what about a simple wooden cube with a moving face? In his study Common Locus, Peter explored just that. The results might surprise you—and reveal more about human nature than you’d expect. If you want to read more about the research project of Joost Mollen, Peter van der Putten, and Kate Darling: Bonding with a Couchsurfing Robot: The Impact of Common Locus on Human-Robot Bonding In-the-wild. ACM Transactions on Human-Robot Interaction. 12, 1, Article 8, March 2023. More information about Peter can be found here: https://liacs.leidenuniv.nl/~puttenpwhvander/ 

In this episode, LIACS Assistant Professor Hao Wang shares insights into multi-criteria optimization and the concept of the Pareto optimum. Discover how these powerful techniques, often used in decision-making and problem-solving, can help you plan the perfect trip. Whether you’re balancing cost, travel time, and comfort or choosing between destinations, learn how mathematical models can guide you toward the best possible choices. Tune in for a new episode that bridges research and real-life experiences. 

The hay fever season lasts longer than it used to because of climate change. LIACS Assistant Professor Lu Cao explains how machine learning and AI can help to easier count pollen in the air. This improves the accuracy and efficiency of pollen monitoring, a critical tool for understanding seasonal allergies, air quality, and climate impact. Discover how AI-driven technologies can improve the accuracy and efficiency of pollen monitoring, providing valuable insights for municipal governments. With better data, policymakers can adjust their strategies on public green spaces, balancing ecological benefits with the needs of residents affected by allergies. 

Can robots feel joy or guilt? Can they have emotions at all? Today, we dive into the fascinating world of "affective" computing with Associate Professor Joost Broekens, a leading expert in the field. But what exactly is affective computing?We also tackle the ethical challenges of AI-emotion interaction, exploring topics like the European AI Act, which bans emotion recognition in education and the workplace. Are these new technologies transforming artificial intelligence into emotional intelligence?