AI Research Demo at the Social AI Lab Rotterdam

The demonstration features a map comparing how Rotterdam residents perceive their neighbourhoods with the way AI models describe those neighbourhoods. Members of the public can enter keywords to see how their own perceptions compare with those of the AI. The demo showed that, in most cases, AI models are more negative than the residents themselves, and that they present a more unbalanced picture of the city (north-south differences).

Discussions revealed that some residents struggle with digital communication. As a result, they may sometimes miss important information or appointments. Alternatively, they may not fully understand how their children use technology, which can make it difficult to discuss the matter. Digital communication is not always sufficient; it is important to always be able to speak to someone in person when necessary.

In the Lab, students learn how to develop technology and communication solutions that work for the people of Rotterdam. Interaction with local residents therefore complements their studies perfectly. Wai Hou Foong, for example, demonstrates this through his AI research.

Furthermore, smart technology can assist decision-makers. It can gather and present insights from the neighbourhood and raise critical questions based on the views of the people of Rotterdam.

At the Erasmus School of History, Culture and Communication, in-depth research is being carried out into the socially responsible and people-centred use of AI. Master’s student Wai Hou Foong from the Media, Digitalisation & Society programme worked as a research assistant. Some leading academics in the field include Dr. João Gonçalves and Prof.dr. Jason Pridmore.