COMPSCI

Introduction to Modeling Language

• Transition from text encoding (like ASCII) to modeling language and understanding higher-level representations.

• Purpose of today's discussion to explore how sentences and words are modeled in computing.

Key Concepts

Representation

• Definition: A way to map something real-world (like language) into a format usable by a computer.

• Example: ASCII, which is a way of encoding characters into a numerical form.

Model

• Definition: A simplified description or abstraction of an object, system, or process.

• Models dictate how we represent information, determining what is important and relevant.

• Application: Models can vary in context, applicable in numerous fields including statistics and computational theories.

Connection Between Representation and Models

• The representation of information (like ASCII) is shaped by underlying models.

• Models help define the scope of what can be represented.

• ASCII's model includes the Latin alphabet, numbers, and punctuation as the basis for coding characters.

Computational Devices and Examples

Voice Assistants (e.g., Alexa, Siri)

• Uses models to interpret and respond to user requests.

• Users can phrase questions in multiple ways (e.g., 'Alexa, what time is it?' or 'Alexa, time?') and still receive consistent answers.

• Models help in recognizing variations of questions and interpreting their meanings uniformly.

• Objective of model: Simplify user queries to derive intended meanings from varied linguistic expressions.

Application in Class

• Introduction of 'Simple Language Recognizer', a simplified programming environment for hands-on practice.

• Class members are directed to access the link via Canvas from the modules section to become familiar with text and language representation.