Tool Learning with Foundation Models

Original Paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2304.08354

By: Yujia Qin, Shengding Hu, Yankai Lin, Weize Chen, Ning Ding, Ganqu Cui, Zheni Zeng, Yufei Huang, Chaojun Xiao, Chi Han, Yi Ren Fung, Yusheng Su, Huadong Wang, Cheng Qian, Runchu Tian, Kunlun Zhu, Shihao Liang, Xingyu Shen, Bokai Xu, Zhen Zhang, Yining Ye, Bowen Li, Ziwei Tang, Jing Yi, Yuzhang Zhu, Zhenning Dai, Lan Yan, Xin Cong, Yaxi Lu, Weilin Zhao, Yuxiang Huang, Junxi Yan, Xu Han, Xian Sun, Dahai Li, Jason Phang, Cheng Yang, Tongshuang Wu, Heng Ji, Zhiyuan Liu, Maosong Sun

Abstract:

Humans possess an extraordinary ability to create and utilize tools, allowing them to overcome physical limitations and explore new frontiers. With the advent of foundation models, AI systems have the potential to be equally adept in tool use as humans. This paradigm, i.e., tool learning with foundation models, combines the strengths of specialized tools and foundation models to achieve enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and automation in problem-solving. Despite its immense potential, there is still a lack of a comprehensive understanding of key challenges, opportunities, and future endeavors in this field. To this end, we present a systematic investigation of tool learning in this paper. We first introduce the background of tool learning, including its cognitive origins, the paradigm shift of foundation models, and the complementary roles of tools and models. Then we recapitulate existing tool learning research into tool-augmented and tool-oriented learning. We formulate a general tool learning framework: starting from understanding the user instruction, models should learn to decompose a complex task into several subtasks, dynamically adjust their plan through reasoning, and effectively conquer each sub-task by selecting appropriate tools. We also discuss how to train models for improved tool-use capabilities and facilitate the generalization in tool learning. Considering the lack of a systematic tool learning evaluation in prior works, we experiment with 18 representative tools and show the potential of current foundation models in skillfully utilizing tools. Finally, we discuss several open problems that require further investigation for tool learning. Overall, we hope this paper could inspire future research in integrating tools with foundation models.

Summary Notes

New Horizons in AI: Blending Foundation Models with Specialized Tools

The fusion of foundation models and specialized tools marks a significant leap in artificial intelligence (AI). This integration aims to combine the strengths of both elements to tackle complex tasks more efficiently. For AI engineers in enterprise settings, mastering this blend could unlock new levels of innovation and problem-solving.

Evolution of Tools and AI's Shift

Cognitive Beginnings of Tool Use

Tool use has been crucial in human evolution, showcasing our species' ability to solve problems and interact with our environment. This capability goes beyond physical interaction, requiring a deep cognitive understanding. For AI engineers, drawing lessons from this can offer valuable perspectives in developing AI systems.

Types of Tools

Tools in the digital world fall into three main categories:

• Physical interaction-based tools: Require manual handling.
• GUI-based tools: Interacted with through graphical user interfaces.
• Program-based tools: Operated via programming interfaces or scripts.

Grasping these categories helps in crafting AI systems that can smoothly work with various tools.

Foundation Models: A Shift in Paradigm

Foundation models represent a paradigm shift, moving from specialized, narrow AI to more generalized, adaptable systems. This change is pivotal for tool integration, offering a more flexible and comprehensive approach to handling AI tasks.

Tool Learning Framework

A robust framework for tool learning includes the tool set, environment, controller (using foundation models), and perceiver. This setup aims to streamline the integration and interaction between these elements, enhancing efficiency in performing complex tasks.

Overcoming Key Challenges

Understanding Intent and Tools

A major challenge is linking user intent with tool capabilities. This requires systems that grasp not just commands, but the context and desired outcomes.

Planning and Reasoning

Sophisticated planning and reasoning are essential for effective tool use in AI. Systems must dynamically adjust their strategies based on task needs and available tools.

Training for Better Tool Use

Key training strategies like learning from demonstrations and feedback are crucial. They enhance tool-use skills and emphasize adaptability, allowing models to handle new tools and scenarios.

Real-world Impact and Experiments

Real-world applications have shown the potential of foundation models in tool integration, improving accuracy, efficiency, and automation. These cases provide a guide for AI engineers to apply these models effectively.

Future Research Areas

Future research should focus on:

• Safe and trustworthy tool learning: Ensuring AI systems use tools safely and in line with human values.
• Tool learning in large systems: Enhancing AI capabilities in complex environments.
• Evolving from tool user to tool maker: Investigating how AI can create new tools.
• Personalized tool learning: Customizing AI to individual user preferences.
• Combining tool learning with embodied AI: Improving physical interaction abilities of AI systems.

Conclusion

Integrating foundation models with tools presents a new frontier for AI engineers, offering unmatched efficiency and problem-solving skills. Staying ahead in this evolving field is key for innovation and competitive advantage.

For AI engineers, diving into this integration is more than boosting AI capabilities; it's about redefining technological possibilities and shaping the future of intelligent systems.