How Can Artificial Intelligence 'See' More Responsibly, Feds Ask Public

Federal researchers are looking for updates and feedback on a video analytics initiative regarding ethical technology development, as government agencies plan to incorporate more artificial intelligence research and systems into their operations. The Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program, a federally-funded research organization that specializes in advanced information technology solutions, issued a request for comment on its updated guidance on federal computer vision and AI technology research. Originally published in March 2020, the NITRD's Federal Video and Image Analytics Research and Development Action Plan is open to public comments and suggestions on how to improve the plan's key pillars to bridge noted gaps in federal research investment, particularly surrounding the incorporation of responsible AI. "As we move into new and novel applications for technology, we must be cognizant of potential harm that AI and other technologies can bring into society, such as identifying and discriminating against certain individuals," a NITRD spokesperson told Nextgov. "The VIA Team seeks input from the public on potential revisions to the VIA R&D action plan to reflect changes in technology and the socio-technical environment--how humans and technology are interrelated in the workplace and in the broader society." The VIA team is particularly interested in revision suggestions that mitigate potential risks related to individual rights and privacy, while establishing "a foundation for human rights" belying AI implementation.