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| Centre for Science and Citizenship founders Dr Deborah Stevens, left, and Dr Lynne Bowyer. Photo: Miri Schroeter |
The 130 budding young scientists, from Freyberg High School, Manawatu College and Waiopehu College, learned about the benefits and difficulties faced in a technology-rich future at a conference in Levin on Friday.
Mechanical masseuses and construction robots that could work in all weather conditions and give workers a sleep-in were among ideas the pupils – aged 11 to 13 – came up with for the future.
Waiopehu College pupil Sammy Heyward suggested an artificial intelligence machine could replaced police forces.
"It would be good so that police didn't have to go out – so they wouldn't get hurt," she said.
Heyward's classmate Niko Tofa said the girls had a good idea but they were a bit embarrassed about sharing it.
"The girls wanted a robot that could shave their legs," he said.
The conference, organised by the Centre for Science and Citizenship, was aimed at making young minds think about the implications artificial intelligence would have on humans.
Centre co-founder Dr Lynne Bowyer said pupils were encouraged to think critically about the pros and cons of advanced technology.
"What might seem like a good idea on the surface may not be so beneficial."
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Source: Manawatu Standard
