HUMA 5632 Digital Humanities Seminar - [HUMA 5632 Digital Humanities Seminar] Open Workshop 5: Mapping Knowledge: Using AI Embeddings to Visualize Scholarly Texts

Abstract

This workshop introduces the use of embeddings—numerical representations of words, sentences, and documents—for exploring large collections of scholarly texts, serving both research and teaching purposes. Embeddings capture semantic similarity, allowing related texts to cluster together in a shared space. When combined with visualization, they create “maps of knowledge” that reveal patterns, themes, and unexpected connections across disciplines. Participants will gain an accessible overview of embeddings, vector databases and their role in generative AI. Participants will also gain hands-on experience with interactive embedding visualization tools, and will learn how to transform textual collections (such as abstracts, articles, or archival materials) into interactive maps that highlight thematic groupings and intellectual landscapes.

Biography

Dr. Eric H. C. Chow is a research developer at the Big Data Studies Lab (University of Hong Kong), specializing in the application of artificial intelligence and large language models in the GLAM sector (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) across Asia and North America. His projects include collaborations with the Asia Art Archive, the University of Illinois Chicago Library, and the University of Central Florida Library. Formerly the Digital Scholarship Manager at Hong Kong Baptist University Library, Eric has long been involved in developing digital archives and tools that bridge cultural heritage with computational research.