CHILDREN'S BOOK
The illustrated children's book Padma into Policy: Safe & Equitable AI breaks down responsible tech policy in a fun and accessible way for young learners.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Padma into Policy: Safe & Equitable AI is the first installment of the Padma into Policy children's book series. This series in intended to teach young readers about public policy and advocacy concepts as they follow the fun and engaging adventures of Padma, a young Indian-American girl.
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In Padma into Policy: Safe & Equitable AI, Padma is fascinated to learn about artificial intelligence after her teacher introduces the new technology to the class. However, as Padma researches artificial intelligence, she quickly learns about issues like bias and inequity.
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Padma learns that her own town uses AI in its criminal justice system, imposing unfair sentences on certain people. She advocates for a bill called the Justice Code, which would require artificial intelligence systems to be developed so that they are fair toward all people.
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Padma learns about the power of advocacy and civic engagement to create change. Together with her fellow students, she is able to lead equitable technology in her town.
CREATING PADMA INTO POLICY
I was motivated to author Padma into Policy: Safe & Equitable AI by a passion for storytelling and a recognition that books can be a powerful tool for equity. I aimed to bridge the gap between the technologies shaping our world and the voices that traditionally go underrepresented in discussions about them. I hope that this book can introduce young minds to an understanding of the immense good that technologies like AI can bring, while underscoring the critical importance of ensuring that these systems are fair and inclusive.
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The choice of Padma, an Indian-American girl, as my protagonist was a deliberate one. Growing up, it was rare for me to come across children's books featuring girls of color as protagonists. I wanted to create a character who could reflect the diversity and multiculturalism of our world, while helping address the underrepresentation of people of color in children's books. By following Padma's journey, young readers can grasp the foundational concepts of AI and understand their ability to advocate for equitable technology.
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My motivation ultimately stemmed from a belief that everyone deserves to have a voice in shaping our collective future. Padma into Policy aims to inspire curiousity and critical thinking skills, laying the foundations for young readers to eventually contribute to conversations about AI and its implications. Through Padma's adventures, I hope to instill a sense of agency and curiousity, encouraging young readers to think deeply about how technology can be used to create a more just and inclusive world.
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