Artificial Intelligence
AI and Risk to Children
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad term to include the use of computing technology to, among other things, provide answers to questions, deliver media content and communication through access to stored knowledge. The pace of technological growth in this area is staggering. and it carries many serious legal and ethical considerations.
While an extremely powerful tool it can present seri0us risks. Because it it not perfect, it can produce errors. Because it is based on a knowledgebase that can include copywritten, trademarked and patent protected content, it is possible that the inappropriate use of it's output could violate the legal rights of others, Because of its free availability online, forms of AI it can be used by anyone, even children. What protects a child from generating a realistic photo showing a fellow classmate nude and distributing it to the entire school? This not only harms the classmate but the child generating and distributing the images could be subject to criminal prosecution. AI can be used in a way that results in the child entering personal confidential information that is now a part of AI's database. AI can be used to generate a short essay for a school homework assignment leading the child to both a loss of learning and plagiarism. it is clear that children must be kept safe from these risks and the "how" is just now being considered. Here is an example of a Google Gemini query response to "AI and risks to children":
"Artificial intelligence (AI) can pose risks to children in several ways, including:
Privacy - AI systems collect a lot of data that can be used to make decisions that impact children's lives. Children may also share personal information with AI platforms without realizing it.
Misinformation - AI can be used to create deepfakes, which are fake videos or audio that can be used to impersonate children. Predators can use deepfakes to trick children into building trust or engaging in inappropriate interactions.
Manipulation - AI systems can be used to influence children's behavior and worldviews. Microtargeting can limit a child's online experience and knowledge, and can undermine their freedom of expression and privacy.
Over-reliance - Children may become too dependent on AI for entertainment or problem-solving, which can lead to a lack of creativity and critical thinking skills.
Mental engagement - AI systems can take over cognitive tasks, which can lead to a decline in critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.
Policymakers can help mitigate these risks by considering the unique needs of children and engaging them in policy development. They can also mandate regular follow-up evaluations of AI systems to ensure they remain relevant, accurate, and inclusive."
Thank you Gemini !
A more detailed definition of AI is provided by NASA:
Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems that can perform complex tasks normally done by human-reasoning, decision making, creating, etc. There is no single, simple definition of artificial intelligence because AI tools are capable of a wide range of tasks and outputs, but NASA follows the definition of AI found within EO 13960, which references Section 238(g) of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019.
Any artificial system that performs tasks under varying and unpredictable circumstances without significant human oversight, or that can learn from experience and improve performance when exposed to data sets.
An artificial system developed in computer software, physical hardware, or other context that solves tasks requiring human-like perception, cognition, planning, learning, communication, or physical action.
An artificial system designed to think or act like a human, including cognitive architectures and neural networks. A set of techniques, including machine learning that is designed to approximate a cognitive task.
An artificial system designed to act rationally, including an intelligent software agent or embodied robot that achieves goals using perception, planning, reasoning, learning, communicating, decision-making, and acting.
This section is intended to provide information and resources regarding this growing issue/concern to the safety and wellbeing of children.. We appreciate your feedback.
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