Media, AI, Privacy, Surveillance & Security (MAPS)
Media, AI, Privacy & Surveillance
Examining critical concerns connected to increasing digitalisation
Advancements in new media and communication technologies have produced many possibilities alongside numerous concerns related to personal, social, political, and economic aspects of life. This expert practice addresses the social, political, and ethical issues linked to media practices, the proliferation of artificial intelligence, privacy negotiations, various forms of surveillance, and challenges related to (cyber) security.
The MAPS expert practice consists of researchers with different international backgrounds and methodological approaches, encompassing research across geographies and in divergent economic, social, and political realities. It examines the experiences and activities related to the key topics of AI, privacy, surveillance and security developments in order to contribute to more empirically-informed assessments of new forms of digitalisation. Given that our reliance on media and digital technologies has become integral in (most) modern societies, these critical assessments are increasingly paramount. However, the expert practice sees it as crucial as well to envisage effective solutions to the concerns these developments raise and focus on flexible strategies that can be employed to reduce the more detrimental consequences of a changing digital world.
Research Projects
Protecting and Preserving Privacy for Construction Workers
The construction industry has one of the highest work-related fatality rates in Europe and lags behind other industries in adopting technology. Within the scope of the Horizon 2020 ASHVIN project, EUR explores how artificial intelligence technologies can be used to improve workplace safety and efficiency while safeguarding the privacy of construction workers. We also present a model for sharing data from public infrastructure to enhance citizen contributions and transparency in AI applications for construction maintenance. ASHVIN, a 3-year project funded by the European Commission, is expected to conclude in March 2024.
Further reading at: https://www.ashvin.eu/
The SEISMEC Project
The interdisciplinary SEISMEC project, led by Erasmus University Rotterdam in collaboration with a multinational consortium of research, industry, and civil society partners, has been granted 10 million euros by the European Commission through the Horizon Europe Programme. SEISMEC aims to shape a future of work that is both productive and enriching, with a focus on creating sustainable work environments prioritising employee well-being and satisfaction. The exclusive funding underscores the potential of this four-year project to revolutionise workplaces and empower workers across key European industries. A significant portion of the project focuses on co-designing explainable AI solutions empowering workers in industrial environments. These AI algorithms integrate real-time feedback from workers to improve workplace conditions and outcomes and will be piloted in various real-world industrial contexts. The project is set to start in January 2024.
Further reading at: https://www.eur.nl/en/news/better-work-better-workplaces-10-million-euros-awarded-seismec-project-european-commission
Other Projects
- Mapping Privacy and Surveillance Dynamics in Emerging Mobile Ecosystems
- IcARUS – Innovative Approach to Urban Security
- Ashvin – ASsistants for Healthy, Safe, and Productive Virtual Construction Design, Operation & Maintenance using a Digitial TwIN
- Digital Vigilantism
- Secure Hospitals
- BIM SPEED