Workshop 

PLIX LLM-Algorithm Arcade

Introducing PLIX LLM-Algorithm Arcade — Play and adapt familiar games to learn the FUNdamentals of artificial intelligence (AI)! Try our arcade of invented games to learn about word vectorization in large language models and how machine learning algorithms make predictions. With equity in mind, this activity is playfully and thoughtfully designed to invite learners to be multidisciplinary scientists, creatives, and game designers using familiar low-cost materials to deepen their understanding of artificial intelligence, and embody foundational AI processes and begin to question how much we trust what AI tells us and shows us. To address strong emotions on the use of AI while acknowledging the importance of AI and media literacy, LLM-Algorithm Arcade focuses on learning about AI rather than using AI. It also leverages libraries’ unique opportunities as a space for learner agency, playful learning, and sharing knowledge and joy with others. (This is a new activity that is still in the playtesting stage.)

Host 

Ada Ren-Mitchell is a Learning Programs Designer at the MIT Public Library Innovation Exchange (PLIX, plix.mit.edu), where she designs cozy communities and creative STEAM learning experiences.

Since 2014, her experiences encompass innovative education pedagogy, STEM research, community facilitation, and web and graphic design, weaving together equity, science communication, and community. Celebrating the multidimensionality of life, Ada has been a multimodal gesture researcher for the past 16 years, and pursues hobbies in poetry, digital fabrication, data visualization, sewing, and bookbinding.