NASHVILLE. (WKRN) – The integration of artificial intelligence into our daily lives has been significant, with Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) leveraging AI in a unique manner to detect threats and combat cyberbullying.
Katey McPherson from “Bark” emphasized the added layer of security provided by this technology, citing instances from Oxford, Parkland, Uvalde where early signs of concerning behavior were evident on social media platforms without intervention. The proactive nature of AI in flagging such behaviors is crucial for ensuring student safety.
McPherson highlighted a specialized technology program tailored for schools that utilizes AI to monitor and filter out inappropriate content shared by students and educators alike.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Lipscomb University is spearheading Nashville’s first graduate program focused on artificial intelligence, aiming to address potential threats and preemptively respond to alarming messages in real-time to ensure swift action by authorities.
The AI technology employed by MNPS is versatile, capable of analyzing both text and images to identify potential risks, prompting immediate alerts to school administrators for timely intervention.
The MNPS School Board is actively considering expanding the utilization of AI technology to address various risks such as threats, self-harm, cyberbullying, and other concerning behaviors prevalent in school environments.
Charles Chatman of Youth Villages underscored the detrimental impact of cyberbullying on adolescents, noting parents’ heightened concerns regarding this issue based on recent surveys conducted by Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
While acknowledging the prevalence of cyberbullying, Chatman also observed a positive shift in how teenagers are now more adept at recognizing and managing their emotions, fostering a supportive peer environment.
Despite these advancements, Chatman emphasized the importance of vigilance for signs of distress or behavioral changes in children, particularly before or after device usage, to address potential cyberbullying incidents effectively.
In response to inquiries, MNPS provided a statement regarding the implementation of Bark, a content monitoring service within the Microsoft 365 environment, designed to filter out inappropriate content and alert officials in cases of severe safety risks such as threats or explicit material involving minors. The successful pilot program paved the way for a district-wide adoption of this service, demonstrating a proactive stance towards student well-being.
For further information, MNPS spokesperson Sean Braisted can be contacted for additional details on this innovative technology initiative.
