NSU launches international Artificial Intelligence research collaboration
By Dr. Damien Tristant, Associate Professor of Physics, Northwestern State University
NATCHITOCHES – The roots of artificial intelligence (AI) trace back to the 1950s when Alan Turing (1912-1954), a brilliant British mathematician and computer scientist, explored the potential of building intelligent machines. He endeavored to formulate methods for evaluating their intelligence, as detailed in his seminal paper “Computing Machinery and Intelligence” (https://phil415.pbworks.com/f/TuringComputing.pdf).
Since then, extensive research and development have deepened our understanding of AI. With the widespread adoption of chatbots, AI programs designed for conversational interactions, the world has entered a new era. AI now showcases its versatility as a powerful tool, capable of generating various forms of informational content (text, images and videos) and analyzing vast amounts of data to extract trends and valuable insights.
In this context, Northwestern State University is dedicated to advancing AI across diverse fields such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, engineering technology, veterinary technology, biology and microbiology. Through its STEM school (https://www.nsula.edu/stem/) and the College of Arts and Sciences (https://www.nsula.edu/coas/), NSU has revised its curriculum to equip students with foundational programming skills, particularly in Python. This empowers them to address scientific challenges, excel in machine learning and enhance algorithms within AI.
In addition to its educational initiatives, NSU is actively involved in AI research, fostering partnerships with renowned institutions such as the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT) in the U.S., the Fédération Française du Bâtiment (FFB) de l’Aube, the Cluster Patrimoine Bâti 4.0, and the University of Technology of Troyes (UTT) in France.
Located in Natchitoches, the NCPTT (https://www.nps.gov/subjects/ncptt/index.htm) is a federal research facility dedicated to advancing the preservation of cultural heritage resources. Since 2014, NCPTT has partnered with the FFB, a leading organization in France representing construction professionals. This collaboration aligns with the Cluster Patrimoine Bâti 4.0 (https://clusterpatrimoinebati.com/?lang=en), a network committed to integrating digital technologies into heritage building preservation. The Cluster Patrimoine Bâti 4.0 is engaged in projects with the French Parliament and is poised to extend its research to the French Senate. Together, NCPTT, the FFB, and the Cluster Patrimoine Bâti 4.0 study how historical structures respond to various weather conditions. Their efforts enhance building maintenance and advocate for sustainable renovation practices.
NSU recently partnered with these initiatives to understand how Louisiana’s unique conditions – characterized by hot, humid weather and frequent hurricanes – impact historical buildings. By deploying modern sensors to measure parameters like temperature, humidity and luminosity, the initial focus is on mapping NSU campus buildings constructed around 1950. Using AI, the goal is to identify robust building aspects, facilitating long-term enhancements in insulation while preserving historical integrity. This research aims to optimize historical buildings throughout Louisiana, benefiting disadvantaged communities.
NSU students will actively participate in this initiative, gaining hands-on experience in scientific research methods and enhancing their computational skills. The collaboration includes an exchange program with the UTT (https://www.utt.fr/study-at-utt), a leading French institution for engineering and technology education and research. This program allows NSU students to study in France and welcomes UTT students to explore AI at NSU. Supported by the Department of English, Languages and Cultural Studies (https://www.nsula.edu/english/), students can learn or strengthen their English and French language skills while immersing themselves in Louisiana culture.
This enriching collaboration between institutions marks a significant stride in advancing knowledge and technologies in AI. Interested students can learn more about the programs by contacting Dr. Damien Tristant ([email protected]).
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