Academy Award-winning renowned composer-singer A R Rahman has become the talk of the town because of his recent remarks. He shared some thoughts on the impact of AI as we know it in academia.
The maestro from Chennai, shared a video on AI’s use in Chinese schools, originally made by the Wall Street Journal, on his profile.
The video showcased how AI headbands can measure the focus of a student by tracking their neural signals. The headgear turns the data into attention scores and visual cues using sophisticated algorithms. If the headgear denotes blue, it means the student is lacking in attention. White would mean absent or inactive. The device documents the attention span and sends the data to tutors and guardians of the ward. Students are also tracked with chips inbuilt into their uniforms.
Just like us AR Rahman also finds the whole concept bothersome. He quips
“I pity the new generation.”
I pity the new generation…..are they blessed and cursed at the same time?….only time will tell 🥸 #ethicaluseoftechnology #ethicaluseofpower #ai #messingwithnature https://t.co/q1cVG5aIAE
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) May 6, 2023
AR wonders whether the whole AI thing is a boon or a bane to students.
In Chinese society, the use of surveillance and analytical technology has become a norm, and citizens are evaluated through the social credit system. This system, which was introduced in the 1980s, assigns a rating to individuals that could significantly impact their access to various opportunities such as visas, employment, and education. Those with low scores are excluded from better jobs, private schools, and even hotel accommodations. Additionally, they may experience public shaming and reduced internet speed.
Chinas social credit system pic.twitter.com/zqCt9wJVBS
— Luke Robinson (@thoughtsofluke) October 17, 2021
The widespread use of CCTV surveillance, supported by advanced facial recognition and AI technology, has created an Orwellian dystopia in China. By exposing students to this type of surveillance at a young age, they are conditioned to accept it without question, and it becomes a normal part of their lives.
