VIU Computer Science professor investigating AI privacy concerns among young users

Dr. Ajay Shrestha and his research team are looking for participants for their research study.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) announced funding for research projects focusing on children’s privacy and the impact of technology on privacy. This research is supported by the OPC’s Contributions Program. 

Dr. Ajay Shrestha, a Vancouver Island University (VIU) Computer Science Professor, received $86,601 for his research project Safeguarding tomorrow’s data landscape: Young digital citizens’ perspectives on privacy within AI systems.

In the ever-expanding digital landscape where artificial intelligence (AI) plays a central role, it is crucial to address the privacy impacts of these emerging technologies. Shrestha’s research project aims to explore the complexities of AI’s privacy impacts with a focus on understanding the perspectives of young digital users and protecting children’s privacy rights.

The project will use surveys, interviews and focus groups to gather insights from young users, educators, parents, AI developers and researchers to explore their perspectives on data control and factors influencing perceptions of privacy in AI applications. By understanding how young users perceive and expect privacy in AI applications, the project strives to contribute to the responsible integration of AI technologies into the lives of young users, championing ethical AI use and ensuring privacy protection in the digital age. The research will also examine digital literacy levels and prior interactions with AI technologies. This will help develop guidelines aimed at addressing young users’ specific concerns. 

The project will engage young digital citizens through workshops and participatory activities, which aim to empower young users and give them a voice in shaping the narrative around privacy in AI systems.

Seeking research participants

Shrestha and his research team are looking for participants for their research study. Educators, parents, AI developers, researchers and young digital citizens aged 16 to 19 are invited to take the survey. Also, educators, parents, AI developers and researchers are invited to sign up to participate in in-depth individual interviews and focus group studies. Learn more about the Safeguarding Tomorrow’s Data Landscape research project and how to participate.

Shrestha’s research team includes:

• Ankur Barthwal, VIU Research Assistant
• Molly Campbell, VIU Research Assistant
• Austin Shouli, VIU Research Assistant
• Saad Syed, Volunteer

Read the Office of the Privacy Commissioners of Canada’s news release.

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Media Contact:

Rachel Stern, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.618.0373 l E: Rachel.Stern@viu.ca | X: @VIUNews

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