Al algorithms and child online safety: A study on Sri Lankan students' exposure to harmful content

Abstract

Background: The rise in the internet utilization in Sri Lanka has brought about the increase of students who access AI-driven content. Nevertheless, doubts have been expressed regarding children becoming exposed to violent or disturbing content due to artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The purpose of this research is to establish the magnitude of online harmful content exposure to Sri Lankan students through Al-driven platforms, and to inspect the efficacy of the existing provisions. Method: A combination of quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews was used, and interviews with educators, child psychologists, and cybersecurity experts as well as surveys were conducted among 500 students between 12 and 18 years from different areas of Sri Lanka. Their online behaviors, experiences with harmful content, and awareness of safety protocols were all gauged. Results: Students have been exposed to inappropriate content because of weak Al content filters on video-sharing sites and social media. Furthermore, students are placed at an even greater risk by insufficient online safety awareness and the lack of their parents' supervision and digital literacy programs. Although Sri Lanka has made some attempts to set out laws to protect children from online harm, their implementation is sporadic, and there is no AI-based content moderation strategy that is discussed or adopted in the existing policies. In comparison to other countries that robustly implement AI content moderation and that have comprehensive frameworks for student online safety, Sri Lanka seems to have none. Conclusions: Society wants pay the attention to enhance child online safety, it is imperative to develop strong Al-based moderation systems that are well-suited to regional languages, introduce a high level of digital literacy, and put-up strict regulations. Crucial for the clear establishment of safe digital environments for children would be the coordinated endeavors of policymakers, teachers, and technology inventors.