Advancing the Battle Against Fake News: My AI Journey
My journey into the realm of AI commenced with humble beginnings. Armed with determination and curiosity, I delved into the world of machine learning, starting with basic models from the Python libraries, SKlearn and SciKit. I embarked on creating a rudimentary model that analyzed text data from both fake and reputable news sources. The outcome was a classification system that provided a clear verdict: 0 for fake, 1 for true, and 2 for an uncertain result. During this phase, I experimented with various classification algorithms, including K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). This initial foray was an essential stepping stone, providing me with valuable insights and motivation to push the boundaries of what my AI could achieve.
Global Leadership Program
As fate would have it, my high school, Pickering College, has a unique program called the Global Leadership Program (GLP). This program empowers students to explore and take action on global issues. For my mission, I chose to combat the proliferation of fake news and misinformation.
The foundational AI model I had developed became the cornerstone of my action plan. However, it quickly became apparent that if I wanted to make a substantial impact and drive real change, my AI needed to evolve beyond its black-and-white classification.
The Shift to Deep Neural Networks
To enhance the capabilities of my AI, I transitioned to using TensorFlow, a powerful tool for building machine learning models, particularly deep neural networks. This shift allowed me to develop a more intricate and nuanced system for fake news detection.
My advanced algorithm now goes beyond the binary classification and provides users with comprehensive information about the text it analyzes. It distinguishes between opinion-based and fact-based content and assesses the veracity of claims through the examination of proven evidence. This multifaceted approach serves to educate and assist readers in critically evaluating news articles, distinguishing between factual evidence and biased claims.
The Path Forward: From Idea to Reality
Today, I find myself in a more advanced and new subprogram of GLP called the Incubator Program. Here, I am tirelessly working to transform my idea into a fully functional AI model with an intuitive user interface. My goal is to create a tool that empowers users to make informed decisions when consuming news and information, contributing to a world with less misinformation and more critical thinking.