How Artificial Intelligence Technology Is Used By UNICEF? - AI Summary

An inclusive design approach that embraces the participation of young users, their parents, and local communities in the life cycle of an Artificial Intelligence project, is critical for children's empowerment and for responsible AI innovation. UNICEF's policy guidance recommends that children should be in a position to use AI products or services, regardless of their age, gender identities, geographic and cultural diversity. When working on the design of AutismVR, a VR and AI-based game that helps parents, educators and siblings empathize and interact with children affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the team at Imìsí 3D conducted interviews and participatory testing sessions involving children with ASD and their caregivers. Interestingly, Imìsí 3D followed experts' recommended methods for engagement, such as using a communication partner, often a parent, as a proxy to elicit feedback from children with ASD. Building on this inclusive process, improvements were made to the game to better raise awareness about neurodiversity and prevent discrimination, gender stigma, or other prejudices.