Introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture

Introduction to artificial intelligence (AI)in agriculture FB13 Farmers, agronomists, students, and others in agriculture looking to understand how artificial intelligence (AI) can begin support on-farm decision-making. This is an entry-level course. No prior experience with AI is necessary, but basic familiarity with farming practices is assumed. Laptop required for workshops. A one-day classroom-based course with hands-on workshops TBC Dr Robert Jackson, Dr Greg Deakin, Dr Oghenejokpeme Orhobor, Data Sciences Group Niab

Classroom Module 1 (half day): Introduction to AI and Applications in Agriculture

• What is AI? Understanding the basics (machine learning, data, algorithms)

• Should we be scared of AI?

• Sources of public AI tools and platforms used 

• Data ownership, ethics, and regulatory frameworks

• Understanding limitations: What AI can and can’t do in agriculture

• Introduction to image analysis and sensors in crops

 

Classroom Module 2 (half day): Practical AI Tools, Data, and Ethics

• Intro to AI tools you can use today.

• How to ask AI tools questions.

• Scrutinising AI outputs

• Workshop: Identifying AI use-cases on your own farm

• Planning for AI on your farm: cost, training, benefits, and risk

By the end of this course, you will understand:

• What artificial intelligence is and how it applies to agriculture

• Basic principles behind AI tools like machine learning and computer vision

• How to interpret AI-generated insights for use in agriculture

• Ethical and practical considerations when using AI on the farm