From September 20 to 22, Professor Viktor Mayer-Schönberger, a leading global scholar in the field of big data and professor at the University of Oxford, visited Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) to deliver a series of academic lectures. Vice President Yue Xiaokui attended the related events.
During his visit, Professor Mayer-Schönberger engaged in a warm discussion with representatives of the “Zhujian Class”, an elite program at NPU dedicated to cultivating top-notch innovative talents and bringing together outstanding students from diverse disciplines. In the discussion, students demonstrated thier curiosity for knowledge and vitality for innovation. The professor remarked that conversations with energetic young scholars are among the moments he most looks forward to, as they provide an opportunity to share academic ideas with the next generation and inspire their passion for data science.
Conversations Between Professor Mayer-Schönberger And Students From Zhujian Class
Professor Mayer-Schönberger also delivered two thought-provoking academic reports to faculty and students. His first lecture, entitled “Data-driven AI – What it is and What it is Not,” explored the relevant knowledge of artificial intelligence. He emphasized that while data-driven, model-based AI has become a focal point of public attention for its remarkable capabilities, deeper research is still needed to fully understand its core essence and limitations. Using case studies, he elaborated on how key elements are applied in practice and highlighted the cognitive boundaries of AI.
Professor Mayer-Schönberger Delivering His Lecture
The second lecture, “Information-rich Markets – and How to Succeed in them,” analyzed the fundamental logic of market transformation and new opportunities for development in the digital age by explaining the critical factors behind information-rich markets and discussing how sustainable efficiency can be ensured. Both lectures drew capacity crowds, with more than 600 students and faculty members from the School of Computer Science, the Honors College, Queen Mary University of London Engineering School, International College, and other departments in attendance. Participants were deeply engaged, experiencing the world-class academic excellence.
（Text: Shao Xinge, Cao Lin, Long Xiaotian, Yang Hongli; Pictures: Lu Di; Review: Xiang Dan; Translators: Yang Runze, Mei Leyun）
