This event is organized by the Vector Institute.
Talk title:
Linguistic Insights Deepen Our Understanding of AI Systems: The Cases of Reference Frames and Logical Reasoning
Date & Time:
Friday, March 14, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location:
Hybrid
Speaker:
Freda Shi
Abstract:
Understanding why neural AI models behave the way they do, particularly when they fail, has become one of the central topics in recent years. In this talk, I will demonstrate how linguistic principles provide a powerful lens to diagnose and predict model behaviors, ultimately contributing to the development of more robust and interpretable AI systems. I will exemplify this line of research in our group with two specific cases: (1) multimodal reasoning with an awareness of reference frames, and (2) logical reasoning across multiple semantically equivalent forms. By analyzing how these AI models behave, I will highlight patterns and limitations in their decision-making processes, offering insights into their shortcomings and potential improvement. I will conclude by discussing my recent thoughts of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing both AI research and linguistics.
About the Vector Distinguished Lecture Series
The Vector Distinguished Lecture Series is a formal gathering of academic and industrial data scientists across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to discuss advanced topics in machine learning and its goal is to build a stronger machine learning community in Toronto. The talks will be given by international and local faculty and industry professionals.
The seminar series is intended for university faculty and graduate students in machine learning across computer science, ECE, statistics, mathematics, linguistics, and medicine, as well as PhD-level data scientists doing interesting applied research in the GTA. The Toronto machine learning community will be stronger when we know each other and know what problems people are working on.
Vector Distinguished Lecture Series is currently open to the public remotely. Researchers in the Vector community will have opportunities to meet speakers in person. All talks will be streamed online and be posted on the Vector YouTube Channel.
*This event is open to the public with emphasis on graduate students in machine learning, computer science, ECE, statistics, mathematics, linguistics, medicine, as well as PhD-level data scientists in the GTA.
Note: Event details can change. Please visit the Vector Institute’s website for the latest information about this event.