Machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence are common terms in modern technology. These terms are often used interchangeably but incorrectly, which is understandable.
After all, hundreds of millions of people use the advantages of digital technologies. Yet only a small percentage of those users are experts in the field.
AI, data science, and machine learning represent valuable assets that can be used to great advantage in various industries. However, to use these tools properly, you need to understand what they are. Furthermore, knowing the difference between data science and machine learning, as well as how AI differs from both, can dispel the common misconceptions about these technologies.
Read on to gain a better understanding of the three crucial tech concepts.
Data Science
Data science can be viewed as the foundation of many modern technological solutions. It’s also the stage from which existing solutions can progress and evolve. Let’s define data science in more detail.
Definition and Explanation of Data Science
A scientific discipline with practical applications, data science represents a field of study dedicated to the development of data systems. If this definition sounds too broad, that’s because data science is a broad field by its nature.
Data structure is the primary concern of data science. To produce clean data and conduct analysis, scientists use a range of methods and tools, from manual to automated solutions.
Data science has another crucial task: defining problems that previously didn’t exist or slipped by unnoticed. Through this activity, data scientists can help predict unforeseen issues, improve existing digital tools, and promote the development of new ones.
Key Components of Data Science
Breaking down data science into key components, we get to three essential factors:
- Data collection
- Data analysis
- Predictive modeling
Data collection is pretty much what it sounds like – gathering of data. This aspect of data science also includes preprocessing, which is essentially preparation of raw data for further processing.
During data analysis, data scientists draw conclusions based on the gathered data. They search the data for patterns and potential flaws. The scientists do this to determine weak points and system deficiencies. In data visualization, scientists aim to communicate the conclusions of their investigation through graphics, charts, bullet points, and maps.
Finally, predictive modeling represents one of the ultimate uses of the analyzed data. Here, create models that can help them predict future trends. This component also illustrates the differentiation between data science vs. machine learning. Machine learning is often used in predictive modeling as a tool within the broader field of data science.
Applications and Use Cases of Data Science
Data science finds uses in marketing, banking, finance, logistics, HR, and trading, to name a few. Financial institutions and businesses take advantage of data science to assess and manage risks. The powerful assistance of data science often helps these organizations gain the upper hand in the market.
In marketing, data science can provide valuable information about customers, help marketing departments organize, and launch effective targeted campaigns. When it comes to human resources, extensive data gathering, and analysis allow HR departments to single out the best available talent and create accurate employee performance projections.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The term “artificial intelligence” has been somewhat warped by popular culture. Despite the varying interpretations, AI is a concrete technology with a clear definition and purpose, as well as numerous applications.
Definition and Explanation of AI
Artificial intelligence is sometimes called machine intelligence. In its essence, AI represents a machine simulation of human learning and decision-making processes.
AI gives machines the function of empirical learning, i.e., using experiences and observations to gain new knowledge. However, machines can’t acquire new experiences independently. They need to be fed relevant data for the AI process to work.
Furthermore, AI must be able to self-correct so that it can act as an active participant in improving its abilities.
Obviously, AI represents a rather complex technology. We’ll explain its key components in the following section.
Key Components of AI
A branch of computer science, AI includes several components that are either subsets of one another or work in tandem. These are machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and robotics.
It’s no coincidence that machine learning popped up at the top spot here. It’s a crucial aspect of AI that does precisely what the name says: enables machines to learn.
We’ll discuss machine learning in a separate section.
Deep learning relates to machine learning. Its aim is essentially to simulate the human brain. To that end, the technology utilizes neural networks alongside complex algorithm structures that allow the machine to make independent decisions.
Natural language processing (NLP) allows machines to comprehend language similarly to humans. Language processing and understanding are the primary tasks of this AI branch.
Somewhat similar to NLP, computer vision allows machines to process visual input and extract useful data from it. And just as NLP enables a computer to understand language, computer vision facilitates a meaningful interpretation of visual information.
Finally, robotics are AI-controlled machines that can replace humans in dangerous or extremely complex tasks. As a branch of AI, robotics differs from robotic engineering, which focuses on the mechanical aspects of building machines.
Applications and Use Cases of AI
The variety of AI components makes the technology suitable for a wide range of applications. Machine and deep learning are extremely useful in data gathering. NLP has seen a massive uptick in popularity lately, especially with tools like ChatGPT and similar chatbots. And robotics has been around for decades, finding use in various industries and services, in addition to military and space applications.
Machine Learning
Machine learning is an AI branch that’s frequently used in data science. Defining what this aspect of AI does will largely clarify its relationship to data science and artificial intelligence.
Definition and Explanation of Machine Learning
Machine learning utilizes advanced algorithms to detect data patterns and interpret their meaning. The most important facets of machine learning include handling various data types, scalability, and high-level automation.
Like AI in general, machine learning also has a level of complexity to it, consisting of several key components.
Key Components of Machine Learning
The main aspects of machine learning are supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
Supervised learning trains algorithms for data classification using labeled datasets. Simply put, the data is first labeled and then fed into the machine.
Unsupervised learning relies on algorithms that can make sense of unlabeled datasets. In other words, external intervention isn’t necessary here – the machine can analyze data patterns on its own.
Finally, reinforcement learning is the level of machine learning where the AI can learn to respond to input in an optimal way. The machine learns correct behavior through observation and environmental interactions without human assistance.
Applications and Use Cases of Machine Learning
As mentioned, machine learning is particularly useful in data science. The technology makes processing large volumes of data much easier while producing more accurate results. Supervised and particularly unsupervised learning are especially helpful here.
Reinforcement learning is most efficient in uncertain or unpredictable environments. It finds use in robotics, autonomous driving, and all situations where it’s impossible to pre-program machines with sufficient accuracy.
Perhaps most famously, reinforcement learning is behind AlphaGo, an AI program developed for the Go board game. The game is notorious for its complexity, having about 250 possible moves on each of 150 turns, which is how long a typical game lasts.
Alpha Go managed to defeat the human Go champion by getting better at the game through numerous previous matches.
Key Differences Between Data Science, AI, and Machine Learning
The differences between machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence are evident in the scope, objectives, techniques, required skill sets, and application.
As a subset of AI and a frequent tool in data science, machine learning has a more closely defined scope. It’s structured differently to data science and artificial intelligence, both massive fields of study with far-reaching objectives.
The objectives of data science are pto gather and analyze data. Machine learning and AI can take that data and utilize it for problem-solving, decision-making, and to simulate the most complex traits of the human brain.
Machine learning has the ultimate goal of achieving high accuracy in pattern comprehension. On the other hand, the main task of AI in general is to ensure success, particularly in emulating specific facets of human behavior.
All three require specific skill sets. In the case of data science vs. machine learning, the sets don’t match. The former requires knowledge of SQL, ETL, and domains, while the latter calls for Python, math, and data-wrangling expertise.
Naturally, machine learning will have overlapping skill sets with AI, since it’s its subset.
Finally, in the application field, data science produces valuable data-driven insights, AI is largely used in virtual assistants, while machine learning powers search engine algorithms.
How Data Science, AI, and Machine Learning Complement Each Other
Data science helps AI and machine learning by providing accurate, valuable data. Machine learning is critical in processing data and functions as a primary component of AI. And artificial intelligence provides novel solutions on all fronts, allowing for more efficient automation and optimal processes.
Through the interaction of data science, AI, and machine learning, all three branches can develop further, bringing improvement to all related industries.
Understanding the Technology of the Future
Understanding the differences and common uses of data science, AI, and machine learning is essential for professionals in the field. However, it can also be valuable for businesses looking to leverage modern and future technologies.
As all three facets of modern tech develop, it will be important to keep an eye on emerging trends and watch for future developments.
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Life is unpredictable. While many of us have specific hopes and expectations of how our futures will turn out, things don’t always go as expected. There are many variables and unexpected incidents that can interfere and force you to alter your plans, and this is particularly true when it comes to education.
For instance, you might have had plans to study a specific subject, but had to deviate from those plans due to unforeseen circumstances. Or you may have had to enter the workforce in an occupation different from the one you sought in an effort to earn an income, a move that may not provide you with the time or opportunity to achieve your desired educational aims.
In short, every individual’s career pathway is different, and very few go exactly as we expect from the outset. Fortunately, even if you experience a few false starts or sudden twists in your pathway, there are always options available to help you get back on track.
The Unpredictable Nature of Education
In theory, the educational process seems simple. You select a course of study that interests you from the vast array of subjects and prospective professions, select the appropriate classes, acquire the knowledge and skills you need to succeed, and then embark on your profession.
In reality, however, as many people know from firsthand experience, the road to education is often far from straightforward. Here are just some of the many challenges that can take your educational path in a completely different direction:
- Life’s Curveballs: As touched on in the introduction, life is impossible to predict. Financial hardships, health issues, and family emergencies are just some of the unfortunate occurrences that might derail even the most perfectly planned educational regime.
- Changing Interests: People’s desires and preferences don’t necessarily stay the same throughout their entire lives. As you grow, learn, and have new experiences, your interests may change, and so, too, may your educational objectives.
- Pressure and Burnout: Some academic paths are particularly challenging, demanding intense levels of study and hard work. This can sometimes prove too much to bear, even for the most resilient students.
- Failures and Setbacks: Conventional education largely builds around tests and examinations, requiring students to demonstrate their competencies repeatedly. It’s a system that doesn’t suit everyone, and test failures can lead to setbacks and delays.
- Inequality: People can be born with very different privileges and levels of access to education. Those in certain parts of the world may find it much more challenging to complete their education path for financial, cultural, or even political reasons.
- Late Bloomers: People develop at different paces. Some may struggle educationally early on in their lives, forcing them to make certain concessions or sacrifices related to their studies, only to find their feet later in life once they’ve entered the world of work.
Whether you’re a late bloomer, have had your educational aspirations delayed by personal problems, desire to learn new skills and try something different, or want to begin a fresh chapter in your professional life, the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) may be able to help.
Introducing OPIT
OPIT is an online teaching platform, making high-level technological educational programs accessible to all, no matter their age or background. Offering education in fields like computer science, artificial intelligence, and digital business, OPIT provides a curated collection of degrees. In addition, they offer classes taught by world-leading tutors imparting the wisdom and skills students need to achieve their goals and become the tech leaders of tomorrow.
Meanwhile, for those who have had somewhat tumultuous or unpredictable educational paths, OPIT offers the perfect course corrector: the OPIT Foundation Year.
The OPIT Foundation Year
OPIT’s Foundation Year is a Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Information Technology, fully aligned with MQF/EQF Level 4 standards and valued at 60 ECTS credits. Lasting just one year, this program essentially serves as a comprehensive yet accessible springboard towards higher-level education, creating a path towards degrees and careers in dynamic, flexible fields, like computer science and digital business.
Like other OPIT programs, the Foundation Year is delivered entirely online via the OPIT Virtual Learning Environment. Combining live lectures, asynchronous content, and interactive assessments, students enjoy diverse and dynamic study experiences, acquiring core skills like academic writing, mathematics, and computer literacy, and building a bedrock of knowledge and confidence before taking their next steps.
Who Is the Foundation Program For?
The Foundation Program is designed to provide a solid base upon which to build the technological education many students need. It’s the perfect choice for those who are eager and ambitious to enter professions in AI, data science, and computing, but don’t feel that they have the necessary core skills and knowledge needed to dive straight into a degree.
Entry requirements are relatively relaxed in order to allow as many students as possible to enjoy the benefits of this program. With that said, applicants should ideally hold an MQF/EQF Level 3 or equivalent qualification, with the intention of pursuing a bachelor’s degree. A minimum of B2 level of English proficiency is also required, as this is the working and studying language of the institution.
What the Foundation Year Provides
Perhaps you’ve recently graduated, are considering a career change, or finally have the opportunity to return to education after initial delays or unexpected disruptions to your original plans. Either way, the Foundation Year can help you enjoy:
- Greater Self-Confidence: Foundation Year graduates gain the fundamental skills they need to enter degree programs with much more self-belief and assuredness.
- Superior Tech Knowledge: Lasting two terms, this course explores mathematics, academic reading and writing, and provides an introduction to computer hardware and software.
- Foundational Mathematics: Mathematics literacy forms a large part of the study focus for the Foundation Year, helping students feel more comfortable with numbers and formulas.
- Flexible Learning: Unlike more rigid, conventional education environments, OPIT gives you the freedom and flexibility to study at a pace that suits you best, all from the comfort of home.
- Global Community: OPIT is an international institution, with staff and students from all around the world eager to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and help one another.
Take Your Next Steps to Success With the OPIT Foundation Year
If you’re curious about a career in technology or have always wanted to work with AI, data, and computers, but struggled to find the time and opportunities you need to acquire relevant skills and knowledge, the Foundation Program was made for people like you.
It’s the ideal entry point into the exciting world of online education, and the perfect first step towards a prestigious degree from an innovative and increasingly successful institution. Download the brochure to learn more about it, or start your online application, today.
Students today have a broader range of fields of study to choose from than ever before, but with the world becoming increasingly technological and computers increasing in influence and importance, pursuing a career in computer science often proves a smart, strategic choice.
There are numerous benefits and career paths associated with studying and working in computer science, and we’ll be listing just a few of them in this guide.
High Average Salaries
With the rising cost of living in many parts of the world, it’s unsurprising that many students are thinking several decades ahead to determine what level of starting salaries they could obtain in different career fields.
Many are also seeking professions that offer the opportunity for growth and the ability to advance up the ranks over time, thus increasing their salary and their quality of life in the process.
If a strong, stable salary with the opportunity for improved income is one of your top career priorities, computer science should be at or near the top of your list of prospective careers.
According to recent data, computer scientists earn an average of over €65,000 per year, with certain jobs, like IT project leader and data scientist, paying ever higher. Starting salaries are strong, too, with graduates earning anywhere from €46,000 to €60,000, depending on their chosen profession and level of qualifications.
There are similarly high average salaries reported around the world in computer science and related fields such as data science and AI/ML engineering. These numbers are projected to increase in the years to come, pointing to computer science as a way for graduates to get off to the best financial start of any career.
Unrivaled Flexibility
A common problem with some subjects and courses is that they only provide graduates with a narrow set of skills and a similarly narrow range of potential professions to which they can apply those skills.
That’s not the case with computer science. Graduates in this field can enjoy instant access to a remarkably diverse array of career opportunities, with even newer opportunities being created all the time as technology evolves and innovations emerge.
A few of the many industries and roles you might choose to enter in the field of computer science include:
- Healthcare: As a software developer, data analyst, or cybersecurity expert
- Finance: As a fintech engineer, blockchain developer, or security analyst
- Media: As a graphics programmer, AI developer, or game developer
- Education: As an analyst, software developer, or machine learning engineer
Guaranteed Opportunities
Some career paths are more limited than others, with relatively low numbers of opportunities, recurring risks of job loss, or difficulty obtaining employment in the first place.
Again, with computer science, this simply isn’t the case. At a time when 75% of companies plan to embrace AI and other technologies by 2027, and businesses of all sizes and industries are now relying on computers more than ever before, computer science graduates can enjoy almost unbeatable job security.
Opportunities will continue to grow for people with good computing knowledge, whether that be in the obvious fields like software and web development, engineering, and AI development, or more niche sectors.
With so many options, you’re effectively guaranteed a long, rewarding career if you put in the necessary time and effort needed to establish a strong foundation of computing skills.
Rapidly Expanding and Evolving Industries
It’s no secret that the world of technology is a dynamic and fast-moving one. In the past 20 years alone, we’ve seen the proliferation of the internet, the rapid advancement of smartphones and wearable devices, the emergence of AI, and so much more.
In the years ahead, engineers and developers will continue to explore the boundaries of modern technology’s powers and potential, driving new innovations and improvements and opening more exciting job opportunities for those already established and experienced in this field.
Getting into computer science now could therefore provide a solid foundation for a career filled with excitement as you uncover and explore new ways of working with computers in fields as diverse as healthcare, finance, education, entertainment, manufacturing, logistics, and beyond.
Start Your Computer Science Career at OPIT
We’ve discussed some of the many benefits associated with careers in computer science, from the high starting salaries to the rapidly growing array of job options available to graduates. By now, you may be eager to follow this particular career path and take advantage of the wealth of opportunities.
If you’re wondering how to start, the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) may hold the answers you need. As an exclusively online learning platform, specializing in computer science and digital business, and staffed by some of the world’s leading tech experts, OPIT is producing the tech leaders of tomorrow.
Some of the many advantages of learning with OPIT include:
- Accessible and flexible online education that matches your learning style and schedule
- Heavy focus on real-world applications of the skills you acquire
- An international community of like-minded students from around the globe
- A top team of tutors and lecturers from varying fields and industries
- Progressive assessment of skills and understanding – not constant exams
OPIT offers a small, curated selection of courses for those seeking to gain the technological skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen areas of expertise. That includes a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science – a six-term program, worth 180 ECTS credits.
Numerous IT industry leaders and experts helped develop this fully accredited undergraduate degree, which is online and accessible to all. Like other OPIT courses, it offers a flexible learning program, with progressive assessments, fast-track options, and the opportunity to be part of a growing community of learners and tutors.
If the benefits of doing a career in computer science interest you, download the OPIT BSc in Computer Science brochure or fill out an online application today and take your first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling profession.
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