Introduction to Communication and Artificial Intelligence

Communication and artificial intelligence (AI) are closely related. It is communication – particularly interpersonal conversational interaction – that provides AI with its defining test case and experimental evidence. Likewise, recent developments in AI introduce new challenges and opportunities for communication studies. Technologies such as machine translation of human languages, spoken dialogue systems like Siri, algorithms capable of producing publishable journalistic content, and social robots are all designed to communicate with users in a human-like way. This timely and original textbook provides educators and students with a much-needed resource, connecting the dots between the science of AI and the discipline of communication studies. Clearly outlining the topic's scope, content and future, the text introduces key issues and debates, highlighting the importance and relevance of AI to communication studies. In lively and accessible prose, David Gunkel provides a new generation with the information, knowledge, and skills necessary to working and living in a world where social interaction is no longer restricted to humans. The first work of its kind, An Introduction to Communication and Artificial Intelligence is the go-to textbook for students and scholars getting to grips with this crucial interdisciplinary topic.

“Gunkel’s book is an accessible but technically savvy monograph introducing students and scholars of communication and computer science to the intersections between AI and communication. … Gunkel’s book will also be a particularly useful resource to instructors, not only due to its accessible language and wide- reaching scope, but also thanks to the five ‘Maker exercises’ included in the last section. These provide useful entry points for students that are not versed in computer programming for experimenting with simple computer programs.”Communication Theory “An introduction to communication and artificial intelligence aims and succeeds in making sense of AI for students and scholars in social sciences.”Communications

David Gunkel is Professor of Media Studies at Northern Illinois University.