Generative AI in 2025 Vs. Computers on Television in 1978

Computer vs. Kotter

As the IMDB summary in the screenshot below says, this 17th episode in the third season of Welcome Back Kotter featured a computer capable of speaking about any episode in history brought into the classroom to replace the teacher's lectures. Mr. Kotter finds he no longer has to spend time preparing lessons or even grading assignments but doesn't enjoy feeling useless. The seathogs have their own way of resolving that problem and indicate the usual assumption always portrayed on TV that young people just know how to hack computers without any need for formal training. 

Mr. Kotter insists at the end of the program that the computer should be used as a tool but not to replace the human experience of teaching. I found that fascinating that this was portrayed in early 1978 because very few schools were even bringing computers in at that stage. 

Also while the ELIZA chatbot  was born in 1966, it would have carried on conversation via text rather than voice. Also the chatbot could work by responding directly to your input rather like the computer does when Mr. Kotter types in a joke, but it would not have been capable of delivering a lecture on whatever historical topic the teacher typed in, as depicted in "Meet Your New Teacher: Batteries Not Included." There is never any explanation offered about how it is fed data to work with (unlike the computer in the 1957 movie Deskset)

IMDB listing for the episode in question

AI Today

But in 2025, it certainly would be possible given computers ability to tap into the information uploaded to the internet with AI conversion of text to voice, as well. But how does actual generative AI measure up? Ironically, not all that well in context of a very simple query. 

As I discovered Mr. Kotter attempting to get the computer to appreciate one of his uncle jokes via  a video compendium of his jokes, I didn't know which episode to look for and so decided to ask generative AI for help. I presented this query to Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT: In which episode of "Welcome Back Kotter" did Mr. Kotter type a joke into a computer?

Claude completely missed the mark, suggesting such an episode didn't exist and offering its own reasons why I likely was wrong. This is what it wrote: 

I don't recall an episode of "Welcome Back, Kotter" where Mr. Kotter typed a joke into a computer. The show ran from 1975 to 1979, a time when personal computers were just emerging and not commonly featured in television shows, especially in classroom settings.

"Welcome Back, Kotter" was set in a Brooklyn high school where Gabe Kotter (played by Gabe Kaplan) taught a group of underachieving students known as the "Sweathogs." The show primarily focused on classroom interactions, the students' antics, and Kotter's relationship with them, typically using traditional teaching methods rather than technology.

Since my knowledge has a cutoff date, there's a small possibility I might be missing something, but computers were not a significant part of the show's premise or regular storylines. If you're thinking of a specific episode that featured this scenario, it may be from another show or a different context.

Gemini was much more helpful in this context, identifying the correct episode and linking to the IMDB page associated with it.  Here's what it answered: 

Based on the search results, the episode of "Welcome Back, Kotter" where Mr. Kotter interacts with a computer and attempts to tell it a joke is:

• "Meet Your New Teacher: Batteries Not Included" (Season 3, Episode 17)

Here's a key takeaway from the search results:

• The episode features Mr. Woodman bringing a computer into the Sweathogs' classroom. ¹  
  1. Back, Kotter" Meet Your New Teacher: Batteries Not Included (TV Episode 1978) - IMDb

  

  www.imdb.com
• Mr. Kotter does indeed attempt to tell the computer a joke, with less than stellar results.

ChatGPT's response was similar, but I can't account for why it offers a different air date than what is found on IMDB or imputes a particular motive to Mr. Kotter's attempt to the tell the computer a joke.  The the computer doesn't get the joke is not necessarily a slight on its intelligence, as Mr. Kotter's uncle jokes tend to be more groan-worthy than laugh-worthy.  Here's what it wrote: 

​In the "Welcome Back, Kotter" episode titled "Meet Your New Teacher: Batteries Not Included," Mr. Kotter interacts with a computer introduced into his classroom. This episode is the 17th of the third season, which originally aired on February 18, 1978. In this episode, Vice Principal Woodman brings a computer into the Sweathogs' class to teach their lessons, leading to a significant increase in their grades. Feeling jealous and concerned about being replaced, Mr. Kotter attempts to engage with the computer. At the end of the episode, he tries to tell the computer a joke, but the computer does not respond, highlighting the limitations of technology in replacing human interaction. ​Ultimate 70s+10IMDb+10Inner Mind+10

Conclusion

While I do like using Claude for certain tasks, it seems that it suffers from a major shortcoming in making sense of data that should have been accessible to it via the internet. But there's also something very meta about observing the the latest -- of the free -- versions of generative AI only being capable of answering question when they have taken in specific data about them. No computer can simply start lecturing about a historical episode without taking in the relevant data.  And once again, we are reminded that the output of computers depends on what the input is. 

Related:


Add a pinch of salt to creative claims for AI

Bard vs Bard: why you can't just accept the first AI prompt response
AI's early attempts at screenwriting
The perils of prompt engineering
An A/B test of generative AI
Bard brings in the clowns

Literary LinkedIn: Pride and Prejudice Edition

https://www.zazzle.com/pride_and_prejudice_back_playing_cards-256170938484232629

Literary LinkedIn:  Pride and Prejudice Edition

by Ariella Brown

Today I mused about how some of the different characters in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice would behave on LinkedIn and jotted down these takes:

• Mr. Collins would name drop and bore everyone with his pedantic posts.
• Mary would be cringe incarnate and try too hard to impress people with her accomplishments.
• Lydia would only post videos and then shift her attention to Instagram and TikTok.
• Miss Bingley would post only canned ideas and comments and pretend to offer helpful advice when she is really putting people down.
• Darcy would have thousands of followers hanging on his rare posts to try to win some attention from someone with a great deal of wealth and influence. He'd ignore all the invitations to connect.

This Pride and Prejudice gif captures that fairly well.  

Then I thought why not play with generative AI to see what it would come up with for some of the characters. I tasked it with creating profiles for Mr. Darcy, Mr. Wickham, and Elizabeth Bennet. I've copied all three exactly with [my notes in red]:

# Fitzwilliam Darcy

Estate Owner and Manager | Philanthropist | Gentleman of Derbyshire

## About

Experienced estate owner and manager with a strong commitment to upholding family legacy and social responsibilities. Known for astute business acumen, principled decision-making, and a reserved yet commanding presence. Skilled in estate management, social navigation, and horseback riding.    

 ## Experience 

### Owner and Master

**Pemberley Estate, Derbyshire**

*1800 - Present*

- Oversee the management of a vast estate, including tenant farms, forests, and a grand manor house

- Implement innovative agricultural practices to increase productivity and tenant welfare

- Host social events to maintain and expand influential networks

- Manage a staff of over 50 individuals, ensuring smooth operations of the estate

### Guardian

**Georgiana Darcy**

*1803 - Present*

- Responsible for the education, social development, and financial management of my younger sister

- Collaborate with extended family members to ensure her well-being and future prospects

## Education

**Cambridge University**

*Classical Studies and Estate Management*

1795 - 1799

## Skills

- Estate Management

- Financial Planning

- Social Etiquette [well, that's debatable]

- Horseback Riding

- Dancing (Assembly Balls)  

- Letter Writing

## Volunteer Experience

### Patron

**Lambton Village School**

- Provide financial support and oversee improvements to local educational facilities

### Benefactor

**Derbyshire Hospital**

- Regular donations and involvement in expanding medical services for the local community

## Recommendations

**Charles Bingley**

"Darcy is a man of impeccable character and judgment. His friendship and counsel have been invaluable in both personal and professional matters."

**Colonel Fitzwilliam**

"As co-guardian to Georgiana Darcy, I can attest to Fitzwilliam's unwavering dedication and sound decision-making. A true gentleman in every sense."

## Interests

- Literature

- Music (particularly pianoforte performances)

- Fencing

- Landscape Design  - Fine Arts         

## Languages

- English (Native)

- French

- Latin

-Greek

Pride and Prejudice notebook from Totally_jane Austen -

                                   

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# George Wickham

Military Officer | Charming Socialite | Adaptable Professional

## About

Charismatic and versatile professional with a background in military service and a talent for navigating diverse social circles. Adept at building relationships, quick to adapt to new environments, and always seeking opportunities for personal and professional advancement.

## Experience

### Lieutenant

**His Majesty's Army - Militia Regiment**

*1811 - Present*

- Serve as an officer in the militia, maintaining order and participating in local defense

- Engage with local communities, enhancing military-civilian relations

- Demonstrate leadership and tactical skills during training exercises

### Personal Assistant (former)

**Pemberley Estate, Derbyshire**

*1808 - 1810*

- Assisted in various estate management tasks

- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders and local gentry

- Gained valuable insights into high society operations and estate management

### Aspiring Clergyman (abandoned)  [Wouldn't he say Ex-Church of England just like people like to say Ex-Google? ] 

**Church of England**

*1805 - 1808*

- Pursued theological studies with the intention of taking orders

- Developed public speaking and community engagement skills

## Education

**Cambridge University**

*Classical Studies*

1801 - 1805

## Skills

- Public Relations

- Networking

- Adaptability

- Persuasive Communication

- Horseback Riding

- Fencing

[-Seducing young women should be included.}

## Volunteer Experience

### Community Liaison

**Various Local Assemblies**

- Facilitate connections between military personnel and local residents

- Organize social events to boost morale and community spirit

## Recommendations

**Colonel Forster**

"Wickham has proven to be a charming addition to our regiment. His ability to lift spirits and engage with the local community is commendable."

**Mrs. Bennet**

"Such a delightful young man! Mr. Wickham's presence always brightens any social gathering. A true gentleman with impeccable manners."

## Interests

- Literature and Poetry

- Ballroom Dancing

- Card Games

- Theatre and Performances

- Travel and Adventure

-Extorting Money

## Languages

- English (Native)

- French (Conversational).

https://www.zazzle.com/pride_and_prejudice_flask-256985324113916583

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So we have the hero and anti-hero of the novel. I then asked for the heroine, and found it quite interesting that Claude put in this little introductory note before generating it: 

Certainly, I'd be happy to create a LinkedIn profile for Elizabeth Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice." This will be an interesting exercise in translating her 19th-century accomplishments and characteristics into a modern professional format.

# Elizabeth Bennet

Accomplished Gentlewoman | Avid Reader | Critical Thinker

## About

Intelligent and vivacious young woman with a keen eye for social dynamics and human nature. Known for quick wit, love of learning, and ability to challenge societal norms. Excels in conversation, literary analysis, and navigating complex social situations with grace and humor.

## Experience

### Estate Manager in Training [Honestly, this description is much more of a match for Anne in Persuasion than for Elizabeth who doesn't take that much interest in the estate or  in blanacing the budget] 

**Longbourn Estate, Hertfordshire**

*1811 - Present*

- Assist in the management of family estate, including household operations and tenant relations

- Develop skills in budgeting, resource allocation, and social event planning

- Advocate for more efficient and equitable estate practices

### Tutor and Mentor

**Bennet Family**

*1808 - Present*

- Provide guidance and educational support to younger siblings [with dubious success, as revealed by Lydia's behavior] 

- Foster a love for literature and critical thinking among family members

- Encourage the pursuit of personal growth and intellectual development [mostly in her conversations with her father, with the rest of the family, not so much]

## Education

**Home Education**

*Comprehensive studies in Literature, History, Music, and Modern Languages*

1800 - Present

## Skills

- Critical Thinking

- Public Speaking

- Literary Analysis

- Piano Performance

- French Language

- Walking and Nature Observation

- Social Etiquette

- Needlework

## Volunteer Experience

### Community Engagement Coordinator

**Meryton Assembly Halls**

- Organize and participate in local charitable events

- Foster community spirit through social gatherings and dances

### Literacy Advocate [This is rather a bit of a stretch. She doesn't come across as particularly concerned about the tenants of Longbourn, though she would probably have to take on more such responsibilities as the mistress of Pemberley.]

**Longbourn Village**

- Promote reading and education among tenants' children

- Provide informal tutoring in reading and writing

## Recommendations

**Charlotte Lucas**

"Elizabeth's quick wit and insightful nature make her an invaluable friend and a formidable conversationalist. Her ability to see beyond social pretenses is truly remarkable."

**Jane Bennet**

"My sister Elizabeth possesses a rare combination of intelligence, empathy, and determination. Her support and guidance have been instrumental in my own personal growth."

## Interests

- Classic and Contemporary Literature

- Philosophical Debates

- Nature Walks and Sketching

- Musical Performances

- Travel and Exploration of New Cultures                         

## Languages

- English (Native)

- French (Fluent)

- Italian (Basic)

Pride and Prejudice wine labels

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It seems Claude is much more comfortable writing up the profiles of men whose lives more closely match the pattern of people today in terms of formal education and professional roles than with describing women whose more restricted activities do not lend themselves as well to this form of profile. 

Related


Pride and Prejudice in Job Applications

Jane Austen: Love and Money
Love and Limerence in Jane Austen
Jane Austen at the Morgan
Three Janes, Two Governesses,
Observations on Jane Austen's Emma
Jane Austen and Autism
Jane Austen's Heroines
Pride, Prejudice and Persuasion: Obstacles to Happiness in Jane Austen's Novels
Pride and Prejudice in Job Applications
The Big Bow-wow & Bit of Ivory
Jane Austen and Capability Brown

The perils of prompt engineering

You may have noticed a few people who formerly called themselves writers or content creators now calling themselves "prompt engineers." This title gives a veneer of a more scientific credentials to what really amounts to playing around with Chat GPT or Bard or some of the lesser-known generative AI tools out there to elicit the response you seek.

At present, though, there is absolutely no licensing or testing to "prove" oneself as a prompt engineer. It's a self-declared title that can't really be disproven until we come to a stage where Microsoft, Google, or OpenAI decide to make it an official credential. 

You get to call the shots and take credit for when the generative AI delivers. Sounds ideal, right? 

It might have been -- if only you really could wholly rely on the AI to be accurate. Unfortunately, you can't. You have to fact-check everything it assert, no matter how confident it may sound about it. 

Here Be Hallucinations

Why is that? Generative AI has learned to fabricate facts to back the narrative it's constructing. 

This is what has come to be called "hallucinations," though I really don't like the term because it makes it sound like what humans experience from external forces acting on their minds. No one seems to be giving generative AI the equivalent of mind-altering drug to prompt it to come up with this --sometimes rather elaborate -- hallucinations. 

Bard Gets Creative 

 Bard got incredibly expansive in one hallucination, positing an edition of Ben Horowitz's book The Hard Thing About Hard Things that doesn't exist. I asked it if the book ever references Built to Last, an extremely popular and influential business book from the late 20th century, when I noted some striking similarities and even the same title  for a chapter at the end of both books.   

Bard answered:

The passages where Ben Horowitz mentions "Built to Last" explicitly in his book "The Hard Thing about Hard Things" are on the following pages:
Chapter 6: The Flywheel, page 125
Chapter 10: Core Ideology, page 197

I countered that the pages and chapter titles didn't correspond to the copy of the book I had in front of me, and so it compounded the original hallucination as follows:  and it answered:

The passages where Ben Horowitz mentions "Built to Last" explicitly in his book "The Hard Thing about Hard Things" are on the following pages:
Chapter 6: The Flywheel, page 125
Chapter 10: Core Ideology, page 197

Say What?

I countered that the pages and chapter titles didn't correspond to the copy of the book I had in front of me, and so it compounded the original hallucination as follows:

You are correct. The pages I provided correspond to the 2015 edition of the book. The 2014 edition has different page numbers. The passages where Ben Horowitz mentions "Built to Last" explicitly in the 2014 edition are on the following pages:
Chapter 6: The Flywheel, page 107
Chapter 10: Core Ideology, page 177

It then went on to explain that that the chapter titles were changed:

You are correct. The chapter names in the 2014 edition of "The Hard Thing about Hard Things" are different from the chapter names in the 2015 edition. The chapter that I referred to as "The Flywheel" is actually called "Concerning the Going Concerns" in the 2014 edition. The chapter that I referred to as "Core Ideology" is actually called "The Ideology of Success" in the 2014 edition.
I apologize for the confusion. I have updated my previous response to reflect the correct chapter names.

It sounds pretty credible until you look for the 2015 edition of this book and find it never existed. Bard simply created this out of thin air and went on to support the fiction with additional details.

This is very dangerous for anyone who is not by nature as skeptical as I am. Most people would likely accept that if Bard can give an account of an edition of a book as detailed as this, its must really exist. In fact, though, you'd have to not be taken in by the confidence of the assertion and do your own due-diligence.

I'd say that would be the real work of the prompt engineer today: not just coming up with the request for information but rigorously questioning the results and doing your own research to be certain that they're not the product of hallucinations.

Related: 

An A/B Test of Generative AI

Did Open AI Open Pandora's Box?

Bard vs Bard: why you can't just accept the first AI prompt response