Parallel processing is a method of computation in which multiple calculations or processes are carried out simultaneously, rather than sequentially. This technique is particularly valuable in the field of artificial intelligence, where large datasets and complex algorithms can significantly slow down processing times. By leveraging multiple processors or cores, parallel processing enhances the efficiency of tasks such as data analysis, machine learning training, and simulation. Techniques such as MapReduce and GPU computing enable the handling of vast amounts of data, making parallel processing essential for scaling AI applications and improving performance.