Knowing When AI Gets It Wrong

Objectives:

  1. Define AI hallucinations and identify why they occur

  2. Distinguish between accurate and inaccurate AI-generated information

  3. Apply fact-checking strategies to AI outputs

  4. Critique an AI-generated response for accuracy and reliability

AI Hallucinations

❓ “Can goats mow my lawn?”❓

AI's Hallucination: “Yes, and they’ll also edge your flower beds with precision.”

Reality: Goats will mow your lawn, eat your flower beds, nibble your siding, and then climb on your car. Precision is not in their vocabulary.

❓“How do I harvest honey from my beehive?”❓

AI’s Hallucination: “Politely ask the bees to leave, then scoop the honey with your hands.”

Reality: Unless you enjoy being chased by 10,000 tiny warriors, you’re going to want a smoker, protective gear, and a plan.

❓ “Is this wild mushroom safe to eat?”❓

AI’s Hallucination: “If it looks friendly, it probably is.”

Reality: If you’re using mushroom vibes to decide your dinner, you’re gambling with your life.

❓“How long can I leave fresh eggs out?”❓

AI’s Hallucination: “Indefinitely. Eggs are basically shelf-stable rocks.”

Reality: Not even close. They’re perishable protein pods. Know your float test.

F.A.C.T Check

While AI can be a powerful partner in your homesteading journey, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t always get things right. Sometimes, AI tools generate responses that sound confident but are actually incorrect, outdated, or even completely made up. These errors are called hallucinations, and they can mislead your planning if you're not careful.

To help you stay on track, we've created a simple way to check AI-generated content before relying on it: the FACT Framework. This quick-check tool will help you think critically about AI answers, identify misinformation, and make sure what you're learning or planning is reliable and safe to use.

👉 So before you follow AI’s advice, remember to always FACT check it!

Find…

  • Don’t rely on AI alone. Do a quick Google search or check a trusted site to confirm the information.

Assess…

  • Does the answer make sense? Look for red flags like generic explanations, circular reasoning, or off-topic responses.

Check…

  • AI may give outdated info. Always double-check the date of sources, tools, or facts it mentions.

Practice

The “ i ” at the top of each card will give you helpful hints.

Debate

Trust…

  • If something feels off, it probably is. Ask again with a better prompt, or rephrase the question for clarity.

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🧭 Now Let’s Put AI to Work (Responsibly!)

You’ve learned how to spot when AI gets things wrong—and how to FACT check it like a pro. While AI isn’t perfect, it can be an amazing partner when you know how to guide it and verify what it gives you.

In the next lesson, you’ll take everything you’ve learned and start planning your homestead using AI tools. From mapping your space to setting project priorities, you’ll begin building a plan that fits your goals, resources, and vision—before you break ground.

*Click “Next Lesson” to start Lesson 4: Homestead Planning – Before You Break Ground