Will this artificial intelligence system keep your kindergarten toddlers safe?
Chinese team say their algorithm can analyse a live video stream and detect abnormal behaviour such as punching or slapping
A Chinese research team is preparing to roll out a prototype artificial intelligence system designed to catch acts of child abuse in kindergartens in real time.
Most kindergartens in China have installed surveillance cameras in their classrooms, but many are not actively monitored. Researchers say their AI algorithm could analyse a live video stream to track the movements of every pupil and teacher.
When abnormal behaviour – such as punching or slapping – is detected, the computer could send an alert to the kindergarten’s manager, government regulator or parents with a video clip for assessment.
The researchers are conducting extensive testing of the technology and expect to complete the prototype next year.
Rao Yan, an associate professor of computer science at Guizhou Minzu University in Guiyang and lead scientist on the project, said her team had encountered technological hurdles and funding shortages since the research began in 2013.