Project

AI-generated Characters for Learning and Wellbeing

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Pat Pataranutaporn

Pat Pataranutaporn

Advancements in machine learning have recently enabled the hyper-realistic synthesis of prose, images, audio and video data, in what is referred to as artificial intelligence (AI)-generated media. These techniques offer novel opportunities for creating interactions with digital portrayals of individuals that can inspire and intrigue us. AI-generated portrayals of characters can feature synthesized faces, bodies and voices of anyone, from a fictional character to a historical figure, or even a deceased family member. 

Although negative use cases of this technology have dominated the conversation so far,  we explore emerging positive use cases of AI-generated characters, specifically in supporting learning and well-being. 

We demonstrate an easy-to-use AI character generation pipeline to enable such outcomes and discuss ethical implications as well as the need for including traceability to help maintain trust in the generated media. As we look towards the future, we foresee generative media as a crucial part of the ever growing landscape of human–AI interaction. 

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Pat Pataranutaporn

AI characters can be used to create compelling learning material for all ages, from delivery of content in the classroom to engagement with content at locations like museums, historical monuments or even in nature.

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MIT Media Lab

By using state-of-the-art algorithms, prominent historical, modern-day or fictional figures can be brought to life to engage learners with ‘lived’ experiences of scientists making their discoveries, historical figures narrating battles or painters discussing their inspiration and process.

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Fluid Interfaces

AI generated characters can anonymize people in sensitive conversation while maintaining their human presence as someone else.

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MIT Media Lab

Children can see their doctor as a more fun, comforting character. This can help alleviate fear and stress before, during, or after medical appointment. 

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MIT Media Lab

With our unified pipeline, you can generate your own AI generated characters.  For safety, the output is marked to be detectable by both humans and machines. The code will be publicly available soon at : https://github.com/mitmedialab/AI-generated-characters

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Nature Machine Intelligence

While this technology enables exciting possibilities, AI generated media has the potential to be used for malicious purposes.  Going beyond these challenges will require cooperation between communities, governments, industries, researchers, and academic institutions. 

Copyright

Valdemar Danry

AI-generated Character Projects

AI-generated Character Classes